The official promotional artwork for the 2026 FIFA World Cup anthem “Dai Dai,” a historic cross-cultural track by Shakira and Afrobeats icon Burna Boy. Photo Credit: Shakira/Instagram 

If you have been counting down to the World Cup and listening to “Dai Dai” on repeat, the good news is that you can now head straight to Shakira’s YouTube channel to watch the official music video. The Colombian pop icon and Burna Boy have officially dropped the highly anticipated visuals for their mega-collaboration, and it is already pulling in massive numbers online. Directed by Hannah Lux Davis, the video splits its breathtaking scale between the sun-drenched streets of Miami and a stunning sequence with Shakira perched right on top of Mexico City’s iconic Angel of Independence.

While the track is a certified summer bop, the insane star power in this video has everyone talking. Serving as the official anthem for the tournament and the FIFA Global Citizen Education Fund, the visuals feature huge cameos from football royalty. Keep your eyes peeled because Lionel Messi, Kylian Mbappé, Erling Haaland, and Rodri all make major appearances, adding some serious sports authority to the global track.

Shakira on set for the “Dai Dai” official music video, celebrating her historic return to the global football tournament stage. Photo Credit: Shakira/Instagram

Despite the multi-million dollar football roster, the absolute heart and soul of the video belongs to Uganda’s phenomenal Triplets Ghetto Kids. The dance troupe is featured heavily right from the opening frames, delivering their unmistakable pace alongside Shakira in a dramatic desert landscape set against a massive Baobab tree.

Their inclusion brings a raw African dance spirit to the screen, completely stealing the show and grounding the video’s theme of global unity. Burna Boy delivers his verses with effortless charisma, showing once again why he is a premier global performer.

Watch below

The post The Ghetto Kids Just Became the Best Part of Shakira & Burna Boy’s New Video for “Dai Dai” appeared first on BellaNaija - Showcasing Africa to the world. Read today!.

Cultural style icon Farooq Oreagba showcasing custom heritage Yorùbá tailoring ahead of the 2026 Ojude Oba Festival in Ijebu-Ode. Photo Credit: Farooq Oreagba/Instagram

Friday, 29 May 2026 is almost here, and if you know what Ojude Oba is, you already know why this week feels different. If you do not, consider this your introduction to one of the most spectacular cultural festivals in Nigeria, and your sign to make plans immediately.

Ojude Oba, which translates to “the King’s Forecourt” in Yorùbá, is an annual festival held in Ijebu-Ode, Ogun State, on the third day after Eid el-Kabir. What began in the 19th century as a modest gathering of Muslim faithful paying homage to the Awujale of Ijebuland has grown into one of Nigeria’s largest cultural celebrations, drawing over 100,000 attendees from across the country and the world. The festival is a full day of age-grade processions, where over 90 regberegbe groups parade in coordinated traditional attire — lace, Asọ-Ọkè, brocade, ankara — dripping in beads, headgear, and gold.

A prominent women’s Regberegbe cohort seated at the Awujale Pavilion in matching multi-toned traditional attire during the festival, photographed by Fasanmi Afolabi.

Ornately dressed horse riders representing the distinguished Balogun families add another layer of spectacle, and the drumming, dancing, and cultural displays that fill the Awujale Pavilion and surrounding Itoro Centre create an atmosphere that photographs cannot fully capture. Beyond the pageantry, Ojude Oba is also a unifying gathering — for reflection, community pride, and collective celebration of Ijebu heritage.

As for what to expect this year, the format remains the same: a full day of processions, horsemanship, and cultural performances at the Itoro Centre in Ijebu-Ode. The bar for fashion, as always, will be very high. Speaking of which — Farooq Oreagba, the man widely known as the King of Steeze and one of the festival’s most prominent and photographed faces, has already shared photos of himself in a magnificent Asọ-Ọkè Agbada set in navy blue, crimson, and cream, photographed beside a horse. The pre-festival photos alone had us counting down the days.

Traditional men’s styling at Ojude Oba featuring a structured mustard yellow Agbada paired with heritage coral beads, captured by photographer Fasanmi Afolabi.

First timer? Here is what you need to know:

Getting there is straightforward. Ijebu-Ode is approximately 90 kilometres from Lagos, roughly a two-hour drive depending on traffic. Leave early. The roads into Ijebu-Ode get very busy from mid-morning, and the processions begin in the morning with the main activities running through the afternoon. Dress the part, this is not the occasion for casual wear. Traditional attire is not just encouraged, it is the entire point. Asọ-Ọkè, lace, agbada, iro and buba — wear your finest and wear it with intention.

A vibrant procession of a women’s age-grade group showcasing coordinated blue and yellow traditional textiles at Ojude Oba, photographed by Fasanmi Afolabi.

Comfortable footwear is worth thinking about since you will be on your feet for a good portion of the day. Bring cash for food, souvenirs, and the pop-up markets that line the streets. And most importantly, go with an open mind — Ojude Oba is loud, colourful, and joyfully overwhelming in the best possible way. First-timers rarely leave without wanting to come back the following year.

The post Ojude Oba 2026 Is Coming | From Regberegbe Groups to Horse Riders, Here’s What to Expect appeared first on BellaNaija - Showcasing Africa to the world. Read today!.

Popular Nigerian writer, storyteller, and author Yetunde Omobolanle, popularly known as @divayetty, is set to host her first-ever live community experience, No One Warned You About This Part: Live, on June 27th, 2026 in Lagos, Nigeria.

The event is designed as an intimate gathering for modern women navigating identity, ambition, career growth, finance, womanhood, and personal becoming in real time.

Known for her emotionally resonant storytelling and deeply relatable writing across social media, Yetunde has built a community of over 400,000 women across digital platforms over the past five years, with her content reaching millions monthly.

No One Warned You About This Part: Live will feature conversations from popular speakers, industry professionals, creators, and brands, alongside networking sessions, refreshments, live readings, community experiences, and the official live launch and signing of her book, No One Warned You About This Part.

Speaking about the experience, Yetunde describes the event as “a room for women to feel seen, understood, and less alone while figuring life out in real time.”

Attendance is strictly by registration.

BellaNaija is a Media Partner for No One Warned You About This Part: Live

The post No One Warned You About This Part: Live appeared first on BellaNaija - Showcasing Africa to the world. Read today!.

The full design range of the Nike x Slawn collaboration displayed by a group of campaign models, highlighting the sportswear pieces and matching graphic trainers. Photo Credit: Nike Sportswear/Instagram

Nike has just teamed up with London-based artist Slawn for their highly anticipated 2026 collaboration kits, and the campaign lineup is an absolute cultural reset. Slated to drop this summer on SNKRS and at select retailers, the collection brings together an incredible mix of Nigerian icons. We’re talking football legends Jay–Jay Okocha, Tolu Arokodare, and Samuel Chukwueze, alongside veteran actress Patience Ozokwo, whilst musical trailblazers Kida Kudz and DEELA anchor the streetwear aesthetic.

Former Super Eagles captain Jay-Jay Okocha showcases the white and lime green graphic jersey from the Nike x Slawn summer 2026 capsule drop. Photo Credit: Nike Sportswear/Instagram 

The collection itself translates Slawn’s signature graffiti style straight onto athletic staples, giving classic fan gear a complete rethink. The standout piece is a white relaxed-fit graphic t-shirt that features a vibrant, spray-gradient lime green bottom half. The chest is stamped with the official Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) crest and bold, puffy script lettering that reads “NAIJA”—a detail mirrored perfectly on the matching white fleece drawstring shorts.

Close-up portrait of actress Patience Ozokwo smiling whilst wearing a white Nike zip-up tracksuit jacket with vertical green stripes and the Nigeria Football Federation crest, accessorised with cowrie shells in her hair. Photo Credit: Nike Sportswear/Instagram

For those who love a layered look, the drop includes a lightweight, woven zip-up anthem jacket characterised by a striking black-and-grey abstract pattern. In the campaign, it’s styled over a high-neck top and paired with an oversized, deeply pleated black maxi skirt, showing exactly how to blur the lines between sport and high fashion. With the models rocking coordinated green manicured nails and graphic print trainers against Slawn’s iconic black-and-white doodle backdrops, the visuals feel less like a standard jersey launch and more like a complete lifestyle movement.

Contemporary visual artist Olaolu Slawn models his upcoming Nike jersey drop alongside his family, set against a backdrop of his signature monochrome street art doodles. Photo Credit: Nike Sportswear/Instagram

See more photos below

 

View this post on Instagram

 

A post shared by Nike Sportswear (@nikesportswear)

The post Nike Teams Up With Slawn for a Nigerian-Inspired 2026 Collection feat. Jay-Jay Okocha & Patience Ozokwo appeared first on BellaNaija - Showcasing Africa to the world. Read today!.

Asake is keeping the momentum moving forward. Fresh off the release of his fourth studio album, “M$NEY,” the superstar has dropped the official music video for “Gratitude.”

Instead of the high-speed street scenes often found in contemporary Afro-fusion visuals, “Gratitude” opts for an intimate live studio-orchestra arrangement. Asake delivers the track from a vintage microphone setup, styled in a silver-studded black leather jacket, dark sunglasses, and a cap. Surrounding him, a group of musicians clad in uniform shades of off-white and cream anchor the layout. Classical violinists and a cellist provide the backing instrumentation alongside a live rhythm section, whilst a saxophonist delivers a solo while completely reclined on a studio mat.

As the track builds, a backing choir dressed in flowing white robes joins hands behind him, elevating the song’s choral Amapiano harmonies to a striking finish.

Lyrically, “Gratitude” serves as a deeply reflective anchor for the “M$NEY” album. Amidst his global success, the track offers a moment of pause—a sincere thank-you note for preservation, growth, and grounding. The acoustic elements of the live orchestra amplify this message, matching the introspective weight of the lyrics with rich instrumentation.

The release also serves as a major announcement. The video wraps up by rolling out the official dates and venues for Asake’s upcoming “In God We Trust World Tour” across North America and Europe, featuring Uncle Waffles as a special guest

Watch below

The post Watch Asake Perform “Gratitude” Alongside a Full Orchestra and Choir appeared first on BellaNaija - Showcasing Africa to the world. Read today!.

Close-up of Lupita Nyong’o wearing a red strapless fringe mini dress from Mugler during the ELLE Magazine 2026 “The Odyssey” promotional shoot with dramatic smoke and fire. Photo Credit: Elle/Instagram

Care for some dance inspiration this cool evening? Lupita Nyong’o has something for you.

A candid behind-the-scenes moment shared by celebrity hairstylist Vernon François from Lupita Nyong’o’s recent ELLE Magazine Summer 2026 cover shoot is entirely magnetic. While a barefoot moment would have been a natural choice for a quick studio break, the Oscar-winning actress tackled the impromptu routine in metallic gold strappy Giuseppe Zanotti sandals, navigating the choreography effortlessly while holding focus directly with the camera lens.

Styled by the legendary Law Roach, Lupita wears an asymmetrical LaQuan Smith mini dress from the Spring/Summer 2026 collection, rendered in a fiery, sunset-inspired gradient of orange, red, and yellow. The design features a structured bra bodice on one side balanced by a fluid draping that cuts across her torso, leaving her waist exposed. Paired with a classic red lip, minimalist stud earrings, and her signature cropped hair, the entire look is structured specifically to capture fluid motion.

Lupita Nyong’o poses in an asymmetrical orange and red LaQuan Smith dress for ELLE Magazine’s Summer 2026 issue, styled by Law Roach with a background of studio flames. Photo Credit: Elle/Instagram

Moving to the rhythmic baseline, the “Odyssey” star delivers a short, cute, routine of controlled hip rolls, step-touches, and clean pivots that showcase the drape of the silk from every angle. Mid-way through, she drops into a controlled low squat before rising right back into the rhythm without breaking stride.

Whether your primary focus is the high-fashion collaboration or the impeccable rhythm, Lupita gave both equal attention in this Elle shoot.

Watch below

 

View this post on Instagram

 

A post shared by Vernon François (@vernonfrancois)

The post Lupita Nyong’o Dances Through Elle Shoot in Viral Behind-the-Scenes Clip appeared first on BellaNaija - Showcasing Africa to the world. Read today!.

The second edition of the Zackstyling Luxury Masterclass – Bridal Edition brought together some of the most respected voices in fashion, styling, and luxury entrepreneurship for an afternoon of insightful conversations centered on the future of bridal fashion in Africa.

Designed as more than just a masterclass, the event created a vibrant space for emerging and established creatives to connect, learn, and exchange ideas around styling, craftsmanship, storytelling, professionalism, brand building, and sustainability within the fashion industry. Through engaging panel sessions and honest industry conversations, attendees gained valuable insights from leading women shaping the bridal and luxury fashion space today. The event also highlighted the importance of collaboration, community, and creative excellence in building a thriving fashion ecosystem
across the continent.

From celebrating artistry to encouraging innovation and long-term growth, the Zackstyling Luxury Masterclass continues to position itself as an important platform nurturing the next generation of fashion creatives while elevating conversations around bridal styling and luxury fashion in Africa.
As the industry continues to evolve, initiatives like this are helping shape a future where African bridal fashion is defined by intention, creativity, and global relevance.

@zackstyling_luxury_

ZACK AMINU – Creative Director 

BellaNaija is a Media Partner for ZACKSTYLING LUXURY

The post ZackStyling Luxury Masterclass Returns With Inspiring Bridal Edition Focused on the Future of Fashion in Africa appeared first on BellaNaija - Showcasing Africa to the world. Read today!.

For her third appearance, Tyla wore a custom Valentino Garavani piece under the “Costume Art” theme. The look featured a plunging diamond chain bodice and a vivid turquoise skirt. Photo Credit: Valentino/Instagram 

Back to back wins for Tyla! The South African singer walked away from the 52nd American Music Awards on Monday, 25 May 2026, with two awards — Best Afrobeats Artist for the second consecutive year, and Social Song of the Year for her hit single Chanel. She beat out Burna Boy, Wizkid, Moliy, and Rema in the Afrobeats category, and became the first international artist ever to win Social Song of the Year.

The ceremony was held at the MGM Grand Garden Arena in Las Vegas, Nevada, and hosted by Queen Latifah — 31 years after she first co-hosted the show in 1995. The AMAs, now in their 52nd edition, are voted on entirely by the public, based on music sales, streaming figures, and social activity, which makes Tyla’s back-to-back wins a direct reflection of her fanbase, affectionately known as the Tygers. “Chanel,” a track about knowing your worth, has surpassed 354 million streams on Spotify and reached number eight on the Spotify Global chart, making Tyla the first African artist to have multiple Top 10 hits on the global Spotify chart.

Tyla did not attend the ceremony in person, and both her awards were not announced as part of the main televised broadcast. The show featured performances from BTS, who took home Artist of the Year, Sabrina Carpenter, KATSEYE, Karol G, Teyana Taylor, and the Pussycat Dolls, among others. Now a four-time AMA winner, she officially stands as the most nominated African artist in the show’s history.

The post Tyla Wins Best Afrobeats Artist & Social Song of the Year at the 2026 AMAs appeared first on BellaNaija - Showcasing Africa to the world. Read today!.

We talk a lot about the Nigeria we want: better roads, cleaner cities, accountability, opportunities, and systems that actually work. But building that country does not only happen in government offices or during election season. It also happens in the small and seemingly insignificant decisions we make every day as citizens.

From saying no to bribes and keeping our environment clean to respecting one another, showing up with excellence, and staying engaged as citizens, the future we want is shaped by all of us. These are ten ways we can all be better Nigerian citizens.

Say no to bribes

Every naira you hand over is a vote for the system staying exactly as it is. We all know how it goes. The official tells you things will move faster if you can drop a little something. And sometimes it feels easier to just pay and get on with your day. But that money does not disappear. It funds the very system we all complain about.

The traffic officer, the immigration desk, and the government office are not toll gates. When we refuse and document and report, we make it harder for the next person to be shaken down. Nobody said it would be easy, but a Nigeria where bribes stop working is a Nigeria where public servants actually have to serve the public.

Let’s keep Nigeria clean

The beautiful country we want to live in starts with where we put our rubbish. That pure water sachet you toss out the window, the dustbin you empty into the gutter, the bag of trash left by the roadside: it all ends up blocking the drains that flood your street every rainy season.

If there is no bin nearby, hold your trash until you find one. It is a small inconvenience that makes a significant difference when enough of us do it. We talk about wanting a cleaner Nigeria. This is one of the simplest places to start.

Use a restroom

We have over 200 million people living in Nigeria. We cannot all be peeing by the roadside. Petrol stations have restrooms. Fast food spots have them. Shopping plazas have them. If you plan your stops with a little thought, you will almost always find one.

Public urination is one of those things that feels like a small thing individually but adds up to a very large and very avoidable problem collectively.

Play by the rules

The shortcut that works for you today creates the obstacle that blocks you tomorrow. Bypassing queues, falsifying records, using connections to skip processes: these feel like wins in the moment. But every time someone games the system, they make it a little more broken for everyone, including themselves.

The system that bends for you when you have the right contact will bend against you the moment someone with a bigger contact comes along. Building the Nigeria we want means following the rules that make it function, even when it is slower, even when it is frustrating.

Be honest online

Your platform is more powerful than you think. Use it well. Before you share that breaking news from a WhatsApp group, pause. Before you repost that outrage thread, check the source. Misinformation travels fast, and the damage it does is real, to real people and real communities.

Online, we often perform versions of ourselves: more successful, more certain, more present in places we are not. There is room for aspiration, but there is also value in being real. Nigeria needs honest voices. The internet already has enough noise. Be signal.

Hold your leaders accountable

Supporting a leader and scrutinising them are not opposites. Both are your civic duty. When the people we voted for do something wrong, saying so is not betrayal. It is exactly what democracy asks of us. Blind loyalty to a political figure is how bad governance survives for decades.

Read the budgets. Ask what happened to the roads that were promised. Show up at town halls. Follow up on the projects that were announced. You are a citizen, not a fan. The country belongs to you, and that comes with the responsibility of paying attention.

See Nigeria before you see your tribe

The bad roads, the power cuts, the flooding, none of it checks your ethnicity first. When we judge a candidate by their tribe before their track record, we hand power to people who do not deserve it and withhold it from people who do. We have been doing this for decades, and we have seen where it leads.

The problems we share as Nigerians, from infrastructure to education to security, do not respect ethnic lines. Neither should our solutions. We are richer for our diversity. Let’s stop letting it be used to divide us.

Bring excellence to your work

How you do your job is part of how you build this country. Every doctor who provides proper care, every teacher who prepares their lessons, every engineer who follows the spec, every civil servant who shows up and does the work, is helping build the country into a better place.

The circumstances are hard, we know. But excellence is not about waiting for the environment to be perfect. It is about deciding that your standard will not drop regardless. Nigeria has always had exceptional people. Be one of them.

Respect every faith

Nigeria is home to many beliefs. Your neighbour’s peace matters. The volume of your worship, the hours of your generator, the space you take up in shared communities: these things affect people who are also just trying to live.

Religious intolerance has never built a road, powered a hospital, or fed a child. What it has done is cost us lives and set communities against each other. Loving your faith deeply and respecting your neighbour’s faith are not in conflict. In fact, most traditions ask for both.

Vote, and keep watching

The election is not the end of your civic responsibility. It is the beginning.

Get your PVC. Show up on election day. Protect your vote and do not sell it. We have seen too many times what happens when we do not. But after the results come in, stay engaged. Track the promises. Read what is in the budget. Ask questions when projects stall, or money goes unaccounted for.

The country does not run itself between elections. Neither should your attention. The country belongs to us. Let’s get to work.

***

Featured Image by Emmanuel Ikwuegbu for Pexels.

The post Ten Ways to Be a Better Nigerian Citizen appeared first on BellaNaija - Showcasing Africa to the world. Read today!.

Get ready for a long mid-week break, BellaNaijarians!

The Federal Government of Nigeria has officially declared Wednesday, May 27, and Thursday, May 28, 2026, as public holidays to celebrate this year’s Eid ul Adha.

The announcement was made by the Minister of Interior, Olubunmi Tunji Ojo, who extended the government’s warm wishes to Muslim faithful across Nigeria and in the Diaspora.

Recognising the importance of the season, the Minister noted that Eid ul Adha represents the core values of sacrifice, obedience, and compassion.

The government is also encouraging everyone to use this period for prayer and reflection, asking for peace, security, and prosperity for the country.

pic.twitter.com/I8dC3G03rz

— Ministry of Interior (@MinOfInteriorNG) May 25, 2026

The post May 27 & 28 Have Been Declared Public Holidays for Eid ul Adha by the Federal Government appeared first on BellaNaija - Showcasing Africa to the world. Read today!.

Mums, we don’t discuss enough how, somewhere along the line, we stop showing up for ourselves. As we navigate through the busyness and responsibilities of keeping the family together, we sometimes let those struggles define us. While it’s not entirely wrong for our households to become a part of our identities, they should not replace our original selves. Instead, they should complement who we are as individuals before we take on the roles of mums or mothers.

One of the biggest lessons of intentionality is that it produces results faster. When we are intentional, we control how things shift. But when we become laid back about important areas of our lives, things slowly begin to decline without us even realising it.

Here are three beliefs that I believe slowly weaken our confidence and make us become more laid back about how we show up.

I Need Expensive Things to Look Good

One of the biggest misconceptions many women have is that looking stylish requires spending a lot of money, owning designer items, or constantly buying new clothes. In reality, style isn’t about having more; it’s about knowing what works for you and learning to use what you already have effectively.

Style is a skill, and like any skill, it can be learned. Once you understand how to combine different pieces, work with colours, choose timeless staples, and dress with intention, you’ll realise that you don’t need a trendy wardrobe to feel beautiful and confident.

No One Is Really Looking at Me Anymore

Motherhood brings about significant changes. Life becomes busier, and priorities shift. As a result, many moms can start to feel invisible, often without realising it. This can lead to a decrease in effort when it comes to self-presentation. However, one important lesson I’ve learned is this: you are not dressing to impress others; you are dressing for yourself. How you present yourself affects how you feel, and how you feel influences your confidence, self-esteem, energy, and even the way you carry yourself each day.

Looking put together isn’t just about making an impression; sometimes, it’s about reconnecting with your true self.

Nothing Will Look Good on Me Anymore

Body changes after childbirth are real, and for many women, they can lead to feelings of insecurity. However, the issue often isn’t the body itself—it’s a lack of understanding. Different body types require different fits, styles, and silhouettes. Sometimes, nothing feels quite right simply because you haven’t yet discovered what works for your current shape.

This lack of knowledge can make a significant difference. There’s a saying that goes, “My people perish for lack of knowledge.” I believe this applies to our experiences with body changes as well. When women gain understanding, confidence tends to follow. This conversation isn’t about pressure or perfection; it’s about awareness. Being complacent about how we present ourselves affects more than just our appearance. It quietly impacts our confidence, our self-esteem, and how we navigate life.

The truth is, mothers deserve to feel confident. We deserve to feel beautiful at all stages of life—not only when circumstances are perfect or when our children are older. We can embrace this feeling now, even amidst the challenges of everyday life. Sometimes, all it takes is one intentional decision to start anew.

***

Featured Image by Cotton Bro for Pexels

The post Titilade Ilesanmi: Mums, When Do We Start Showing Up for Ourselves? appeared first on BellaNaija - Showcasing Africa to the world. Read today!.

When the theme is Owambe Glam, you already know Nollywood is going to show up looking like a million bucks. For the premiere of “Ajosepo 2: The Gathering:” last night, the cast and guests did complete justice to the brief, turning the venue into a proper high-society celebration.

Timini Egbuson, who plays the groom Jide, skipped the usual shiny fabrics for a more grounded, traditional look. He wore a structured Agbada made from a rich, deep blue fabric, going heavy on the traditional accessories. He paired the outfit with a red fila, rows of red coral beads around his neck and wrist, and held a white ìrùkẹ̀rẹ̀.

Bolaji Ogunmola, the bride Mary, looked stunning in a cream-coloured aso-oke skirt and blouse. Her top featured slightly wide sleeves and was decorated with purple rope embroidery across the neckline and cuffs. She paired it with an overlapping skirt that had matching purple details at the bottom, and a perfectly tied white gele completed her bridal look.

The rest of the guests also delivered on the Owambe Glam theme with stunning fabrics, geles, and custom traditional designs that made the whole venue feel like a real-life wedding party.

Directed by Kayode Kasum, “Ajosepo 2: The Gathering” picks up two years after the first film. This time, the focus is on Jide and Mary’s upcoming wedding, which brings the chaotic extended family back together for a whole new round of drama, laughs, and secrets. The movie stars Timini Egbuson, Bolaji Ogunmola, Mike Afolarin, Tomike Adeoye, Toyin Abraham, and others.

Make sure to catch all the drama when “Ajosepo 2: The Gathering” hits theatres across the country this Thursday, May 28, 2026.

See how the stars showed up:

Timini Egbuson

 

View this post on Instagram

 

A post shared by Timini Egbuson (@_timini)

Bolaji Ogunmola

 

View this post on Instagram

 

A post shared by Bolaji Ogunmola (@bolajiogunmola)

Blessing Nze

 

View this post on Instagram

 

A post shared by Blessing Nze (@blessingjessicaobasi)

Mercy Aigbe

 

View this post on Instagram

 

A post shared by MERCY AIGBE ADEOTI (@realmercyaigbe)

Toyin Abraham

 

View this post on Instagram

 

A post shared by Toyin Abraham Ajeyemi (@toyin_abraham)

Efe Irele

 

View this post on Instagram

 

A post shared by Efe Irele (@efeirele)

Kamo State

 

View this post on Instagram

 

A post shared by Akinyoola Ayoola Buzz (@kamo_state)

 

View this post on Instagram

 

A post shared by Tomike Adeoye (@tomike_a)

Eniola Ajao

 

View this post on Instagram

 

A post shared by Eniola T. Florence Ajao (@eniola_ajao)

The post Owambe Glam Was on Full Display at the “Ajosepo 2: The Gathering” Premiere appeared first on BellaNaija - Showcasing Africa to the world. Read today!.

Opportunity Africa, convened by Africa No Filter, Brand Africa and partners, including the African Union as a pan-African movement working to spotlight the people, ideas, businesses and initiatives moving the continent forward, has launched #NotWaiting today on Africa Day, May 25, 2026, a campaign to call on Africans across the continent and diaspora to spotlight the people, ideas, businesses and progress already shaping Africa’s future.

#NotWaiting is grounded in the belief that if Africans begin to see themselves differently, the world will too. Across Africa, entrepreneurs are building globally competitive companies, creators are shaping culture, communities are driving local innovation, and a new generation is redefining what African ambition looks like. Yet many of these stories remain overshadowed by narratives that focus almost exclusively on crisis, lack and limitation.

The campaign Manifesto

The campaign exists to shift that balance by creating a collective movement of Africans who choose to amplify what is working, who are building and where progress is happening. The campaign invites people to participate by posting stories, people and ideas they believe deserve greater visibility, using the hashtag #NotWaiting. Participants can visit www.notwaiting.africa to sign the campaign Manifesto, share their story, and join the movement.

The campaign will continue on the 25th of every month, creating a recurring moment when Africans collectively flood the internet with stories of progress, creativity, innovation, and opportunity from across the continent and the diaspora.

“#NotWaiting is about making our stories more visible to Africans first. Because if we begin to look at ourselves differently, the world will see us differently too,” said Moky Makura, Executive Director of Africa No Filter.

Speaking on the importance of #NotWaiting, Thebe Ikalafeng, Founder of Brand Africa and Chancellor of Sol Plaatje University, said: “Africa cannot build confidently while constantly reflecting itself through narratives of deficiency. #NotWaiting is a statement of confidence from a continent already in motion, and a reminder that Africa’s image should be shaped by its people, not inherited perceptions.”

Faith Adhiambo, Senior Communication Officer – Agenda 2063 African Union, said on behalf of the AU Director of Communication Leslie Richer: “Africa Day has always represented belief in Africa’s future and pride in Africa’s identity. #NotWaiting captures the energy of a generation that is no longer waiting to be seen, validated or defined by others. Africans are already building the future they want, and this campaign helps make that visible to us and to the world.”

The post Opportunity Africa Launches #NotWaiting Campaign to Spotlight Africans on Africa Day appeared first on BellaNaija - Showcasing Africa to the world. Read today!.

In Nigeria, the birth of a child is met with prayers, immense joy, communal celebration and pride. But for many Nigerian fathers, that moment ends almost immediately. By the next morning, work resumes for them as normal. There is no luxury or structured pause for adjustment and protected time for bonding with their newborn. Most often, there is no expectation that a man will be present for the earliest days of his child’s life. They are then forced into a false trade-off between economic survival and participation in the earliest, most formative days of their child’s life.

This is because the Nigerian Labour Act does not guarantee paternity leave. By omission, it assumes that early childcare is not part of a father’s role. As the law excludes fathers from the earliest stage of caregiving, absence is normalised, and fatherhood is reduced to financial provision alone. And the outcomes are not the best.

Evidence from longitudinal cohort studies in early childhood development suggests that a father’s active involvement in the first six months of life is associated with measurable improvements in child cognitive and socio-emotional outcomes later in early childhood. Children with highly involved fathers tend to score higher on standardised cognitive and learning assessments in early developmental stages, compared to peers with low paternal engagement.

While the federal policy grants 14 days of paternity leave to civil servants, the majority of Nigerian men in the private sector and informal economy have no legal right to time off when a child is born. They are left at the mercy of employer discretion, and most are forced to return to work almost immediately. This creates a ripple effect, for both men and women.

Nigeria is effectively taxing women for the biological and social costs of childbirth while failing to recognise the wider economic burden of unpaid care work, which women disproportionately carry. The consequence is exhausted mothers, absent fathers, and children entering their earliest months without the full support systems evidence shows they require. This is already costing Nigeria through reduced female workforce participation, avoidable health strain, and long-term developmental losses absorbed by families and the state.

Nigeria must introduce at least 14 days of fully paid paternity leave across both public and private sectors, alongside a minimum standard of 16 weeks of fully paid maternity leave for mothers. If a society claims to value families, it cannot continue to maintain a labour system that structurally removes fathers from the foundations of family life and denies children the full support systems they deserve for early childcare.

__

Jude Oseh is an advocate for inclusive growth and women’s leadership. He is the Founder of The Innovation Centre for Inclusive Growth, an advocacy platform focused on democracy, development, and trade. Through this platform, he has consistently supported efforts to advance women’s participation in leadership and governance, including advocating for the adoption of the 35% affirmative action framework and the Reserved Seat for Women Bill as a mechanism for improving women’s representation in public and institutional leadership.

***

Featured Image by August De Richelieu for Pexels

The post How Nigeria’s Labour System Keeps Fathers Away From Their Children appeared first on BellaNaija - Showcasing Africa to the world. Read today!.

Photo credit: Meji Alabi/Instagram

The conversation around the Nigerian Civil War remains a subject of continual debate and relevance today. With secessionist groups operating in the Eastern Region once again, hearing from those who witnessed the history firsthand is more important than ever. To address this, the BBC World Service has announced a landmark documentary titled “Surviving Biafra.”

Produced by the BBC Africa Eye team, the 75-minute film presents differing perspectives on the war, bringing forward accounts from people on both sides of the conflict. The project features personal stories from soldiers and civilians who fought alongside and against each other.

At the centre of this documentary is Grammy Award-winning Nigerian filmmaker Meji Alabi. We all know his work from directing music videos for artists like Wizkid, Burna Boy, and Davido, as well as his feature film directorial debut with Tiwa Savage‘s “Water & Garri“. But this project takes a much more personal turn for him. In “Surviving Biafra,” Meji sits down to interview his own grandfather—a former army Commando. For him, the project is a race against time, especially since most survivors of the war are now in their 70s and 80s.

Like so many Nigerians, my grandfather’s life was forever shaped by the Biafran War,” Meji Alabi shared. “With each passing year, fewer survivors remain — but the memories of what they witnessed have never left them. It is now the responsibility of younger generations to preserve these stories before they disappear forever.

The historical context of the conflict is heavy. The Nigerian Civil War claimed the lives of between 600,000 and three million people, many of whom starved to death amid allegations of war crimes and genocide.

As the sixtieth anniversary of the start of the conflict approaches, the film aims to document the precise events that led up to the war and its impact. Liz Gibbons, Director of BBC Global Journalism, noted that the BBC World Service is sharing this film with an international audience to highlight these personal perspectives and the devastating impact of the war on so many lives.

“Surviving Biafra” features previously unseen archives from the frontline, offering viewers a direct look at the history. The documentary will be available to watch starting Monday, 1 June on BBC iPlayer and YouTube.

The post Meji Alabi Explores His Grandfather’s History in Upcoming BBC Documentary ‘Surviving Biafra’ appeared first on BellaNaija - Showcasing Africa to the world. Read today!.

We can agree that so far, 2026 has been busy, but honestly, it has mostly just been a beautiful season of new life. It feels like every time we scroll through our feeds, someone else is sharing a gorgeous baby bump or announcing a sweet newborn. Our favourite celebrities are giving us pure family joy back-to-back, and we are absolutely here for all of it.

It doesn’t matter if they are becoming parents for the very first time or happily expanding the family squad because the good news just keeps coming. Some people are catching us completely by surprise while others are serving gorgeous maternity shoots that take over our feeds for days, but either way, our faves are really keeping the congratulations flowing.

Because so much has happened just in these first few months of the year, we figured it’s only right to put together a full recap. Here is a look at all the amazing couples who have either welcomed their little ones or have shared that a baby is on the way.

Sharon Ooja & Ugo Nwoke

The Nollywood actress completely melted hearts when she revealed she had welcomed her first child, a baby boy. This joyful next step comes less than two years after her beautiful three-part wedding celebration back in June 2024. Sharon and her husband Ugo Nwoke are now officially stepping into their parenthood era, and we are already calling her the yummiest new mummy on the block to her little boy, whose initials are W.I.N.

 

View this post on Instagram

 

A post shared by Sharon ooja Nwoke (@sharonooja)

Temi Ajibade & Mr Eazi

We are still smiling after Temi took to Instagram to share the beautiful news that she and Mr Eazi are expecting their first child together. She used the most beautiful scripture about being known before being formed in the womb, and she shared photos from a serene outdoor shoot. After their beautiful three-country wedding tour across Monaco, Dubai, and Iceland, we are so incredibly happy to see them start this beautiful next chapter.

 

View this post on Instagram

 

A post shared by Temiloluwa Ajibade (@temiotedola)

Veekee James & Femi Atere

Celebrity fashion designer Veekee James and her husband, Femi Atere, are also enjoying the sweet bliss of new parenthood. After capturing everyone’s attention with their unforgettable love story and elaborate wedding, the happy couple officially welcomed their gorgeous newborn daughter, Eliana Adeife Atere. The proud parents are completely head over heels for their little princess.

 

View this post on Instagram

 

A post shared by VEEKEE JAMES ATERE (@veekee_james)

Ini Dima-Okojie & Abasi Ene-Obong

Our timelines were filled with so much emotion when Nollywood star Ini Dima-Okojie announced she is expecting her first child with her husband, Abasi Ene-Obong. Following their stunning wedding celebrations back in 2022, this pregnancy announcement is being heavily celebrated because we all remember how openly and courageously she shared her medical struggles with fibroids over the years. This is such a beautiful victory for them.

 

View this post on Instagram

 

A post shared by Ini Dima-Okojie (@inidimaokojie)

Simi & Adekunle Gold

Our absolute favourite musical power couple, Simi and Adekunle Gold, continue to give us the ultimate family blueprint. After marrying in a private ceremony, they initially welcomed their first daughter, Adejare, back in May 2020. We were all thrilled when they shared that they were expecting again in December 2025, and they officially marked April 1st, 2026, by sharing the beautiful news of the arrival of their second child.

 

View this post on Instagram

 

A post shared by Simi (@symplysimi)

Wofai Fada & Taiwo Cole

It is an absolute double dose of sweetness for chef and actress Wofai Fada and her husband, Taiwo Cole. The couple originally tied the knot with a beautiful traditional ceremony in May 2024, followed by their legal ceremony in October of the same year, before welcoming their first daughter, Ifedayo Konaghai Cole, in November 2024. Fast forward to April 2026, and the happy couple joyfully announced that baby number two, a sweet little girl, is officially on the way.

 

View this post on Instagram

 

A post shared by Wofai fada Cole (@wofaifada)

Yinka & Chidera Ashogbon

We are also throwing it back to the gorgeous couple Yinka and Chidera Ashogbon, whose love story completely dominated our feeds back in 2024 under the unforgettable wedding hashtag #Dash24. Two years after that stunning celebration, the couple took to social media in May of this year to happily announce that they are officially expecting their first child together.

 

View this post on Instagram

 

A post shared by MRS ASH (@queendarerah)

Ruby Ojiakor & Moc Madu

Nollywood actress Ruby Ojiakor and her husband Moc Madu, who a lot of people know as Onwa Idemili, brought so much joy to social media with their family milestone. The couple shared the exciting news of their pregnancy in March 2026. We have been sending endless congratulations because they have officially welcomed their beautiful newborn baby boy into the world.

 

View this post on Instagram

 

A post shared by Ruby Ojiakor (@ruby_ojiakor)

The post Can We Talk About These 2026 Celebrity Baby Announcements? Because We Are Still Not Over Them! appeared first on BellaNaija - Showcasing Africa to the world. Read today!.

Blaqbonez, holding the mic while performing live in London. Photo by Alex Richer via Blaqbonez’s Instagram.

Since Blaqbonez became a mainstream artist in 2018, following the release of his debut EP, Bad Boy Blaq, he has always found a way to remain in the ears and consciousness of his audience. In Nigerian music, one of the greatest challenges for artists is time, because as it passes, audiences evolve, and the taste and choice of music evolve too. Which is why artists like Wizkid, Davido, Don Jazzy and others are considered exceptional for their consistency and longevity in the game. With Blaqbonez, the rapper, beyond music, has rather adopted and invented different patterns to stay relevant and consistent.

Apart from releasing music, Emeka (his actual name) understands that the game requires more to continue playing it. As a hip/hop artist, a genre that is not the most celebrated in Afrobeats, he has managed to stay shoulder to shoulder with pop artists in the genre. So what are some of the things Blaqbonez has done to stay relevant each year?

At the early stage of his career, one of Blaqbonez’s most effective tools was humour. Long before the skit culture became a promotional tool, Blaqbonez was already using comedy to keep his audience engaged. He made funny videos of himself promoting a new music release or simply being funny. He was most likely doing that at the time without knowing that people most likely remember what or who makes them laugh. His skits kept him visible between music releases.

Probably for a short stint, but in 2022, when Blaqbonez released the video of “Back in Uni”, the video became the talk of the entire country on Nigerian social media. In the video, Blaqbonez cosplayed other artists like Wizkid, Oxlade, Asake, BNXN, Ruger, Burna Boy, Portable and Ayra Starr.

Another tool, and definitely the most effective, was choosing what can be considered alien to Afrobeats. Afrobeats artists are lovers; they sing about missing their lover, being cheated by their lover or meeting their lover someday. The male artists, especially, sing a lot to women, but Blaqbonez chose to be otherwise. Instead of being a prophet of love, he chose to break the “yoke of love.” He stretched the theme of being resistant to the idea of love with his debut album, “Sex Over Love,” released in 2021 and “Young Preacher” in 2022. Blaqbonez is a strong advocate against the concept of love; he preaches that there isn’t anything like a soul mate. He held a “Breaking The Yoke of Love” in 2022; he was that head-on.

Choosing a theme that is not often in Afrobeats made him different as a singer and rapper. Listeners always need to have a reason to listen to an artist. Being resistant to the concept of love was the reason a lot of young people, who shared his belief, chose him as their favourite.

Although his recent beef with his fellow rapper has been much of the conversation around him online in recent times, even more than releasing an album, “No Excuses”, another major part of Blaqbonez’s relevance is how chronically (?) online he is. In today’s era, many artists treat social media as a notice board; Blaqbonez treats it like a living room. He is participating in conversations, responding to trends, teasing fans, and making his audience feel like they are part of his day-to-day life. He likes his fans as much as they like him, and in the re-release of his popular track, “ACL”, the voices of his fans are featured on the song. That is the kind of accessibility that builds familiarity, and familiarity builds loyalty.

Blaqbonez knows exactly who he is in the public imagination and has learned how to weaponise it. He leans into his image as the witty, sometimes unserious, highly self-aware rapper. Instead of resisting memes or online jokes, he often becomes the architect of them. In doing so, he controls his own narrative and ensures that even criticism often works in his favour.

The first thing Blaqbonez understands is that in the music industry, attention is currency. Releasing good music is important, but it is often not enough to sustain relevance. Artists now have to compete not just with other musicians, but with films, skits, trends, and the endless scroll of social media. Blaqbonez recognised this early and chose not to fight the internet, but to become part of it.

The post How Blaqbonez Has Stayed Consistent and Relevant Year After Year appeared first on BellaNaija - Showcasing Africa to the world. Read today!.

Uganda’s Ghetto Kids dance group pose together in matching green, yellow, and patterned Ankara-inspired outfits. Photo Credit: @ghettokids_tfug/Instagram

Africa’s footprint on the 2026 FIFA World Cup just got even bigger! Colombian pop star Shakira has invited Uganda’s Triplet Ghetto Kids to perform with her at the tournament’s final halftime show.

Shakira shared the news in a video message to fans, explaining her vision to make the performance unique by bringing together different dance talents from around the world. She confirmed that the Ugandan dance group is among those officially invited to join her on stage.

During the show, Shakira is expected to perform “Dai Dai,” the official tournament anthem she recently released featuring our very own Burna Boy.

The Ghetto Kids, founded by Dauda Kavuma in Kampala, have gained international recognition over the past decade for their choreography. The dance group previously featured in French Montana’s “Unforgettable” music video, performed during festivities at the 2022 World Cup in Qatar, and reached the finals of Britain’s Got Talent.

The announcement adds to a strong lineup of African talent confirmed for the tournament. Alongside Burna Boy’s feature on the official anthem, Nigerian singer Rema and South African artist Tyla are scheduled to perform at the opening ceremony at SoFi Stadium in Los Angeles on 12 June.

The 2026 FIFA World Cup Final will take place on 19 July at the New York New Jersey Stadium, where Shakira will co-headline the halftime show alongside Madonna and BTS.

 

View this post on Instagram

 

A post shared by Shakira (@shakira)

The post Uganda’s Ghetto Kids to Perform with Shakira at 2026 FIFA World Cup Final Halftime Show appeared first on BellaNaija - Showcasing Africa to the world. Read today!.

The Women at Risk International Foundation (WARIF) is a non-profit organisation set up in response to the extremely high incidence of rape, sexual violence, and human trafficking of young girls and women in our society. WARIF is tackling this issue through a holistic approach that covers health, education, and community service initiatives.

This week, we’re featuring Aisha’s story, a sexual assault survivor.

My name is Aisha. I am 28 years old. I was referred to the WARIF Centre for medical assessment, treatment, and counselling after reporting a case of sexual assault to the police.

I had recently moved into a new neighbourhood in Lagos when my phone developed a fault. While searching for a repair shop, I met a man who later introduced himself as Jacob. He assisted me in locating the shop and even contacted the repairer on my behalf, as the shop owner was not available at the time.

Following that encounter, he asked that I be in a relationship with him, but I declined. Shortly after, he began calling me persistently. I confronted him and firmly asked him to stop contacting me. On another occasion, he saw me on the road and threatened to harm me for rejecting him. At the time, I did not take his threat seriously, unaware that he had begun stalking me and had discovered where I lived.

A few months later, while I was at home, I heard a knock on my door. When I asked who it was, there was no response. As soon as I opened the door, I saw Jacob. He forced his way inside, grabbed me by the neck, and raped me. I was unable to call for help.

In severe pain and distress, I contacted a friend who came to assist me. With her support, I reported the incident to the police. The police then referred me to the WARIF Centre for care and support.

At WARIF, I received immediate medical care, laboratory tests, and psychosocial counselling free of charge. My counsellor provided a safe space for me to share my experience and reassured me that the assault was not my fault. I was taught coping strategies to manage my fear, anxiety, and emotional distress.

I was also supported through counselling sessions that helped me understand the impact of trauma and begin my healing journey. I joined the Group Therapy Sessions, which were held at the Centre, and it helped me develop a sense of belonging with other survivors, and it further helped me in my healing journey. In the past, I used to experience fear and worry, but I have now regained a sense of safety and emotional stability. All things to the counselling sessions with my counsellor.

The police arrested Jacob, and the case was charged in court. The last hearing was eventful and very progressive.

I am grateful for the care and support I received at WARIF. I am hopeful that justice will be served, and I am committed to my healing journey.

Thank you to the staff and team at WARIF Centre for their compassion, professionalism and unwavering support to survivors. Your work restores hope, strength and dignity to so many lives.

*Real name of the survivor changed for confidentiality.

***

WARIF aids survivors of rape and sexual violence through the WARIF Centre – a haven where trained professionals are present full-time, 6 days a week, including public holidays, to offer immediate medical care, forensic medical examinations, psycho-social counselling, and welfare services, which include shelter, legal aid, and vocational skills training. These services are provided FREE of charge to any survivor who walks into the Centre. This feature is published as part of BellaNaija’s commitment to youth, education, healthcare, and community development as part of our corporate social responsibility program.

The post How Aisha is Seeking Safety and Healing After Surviving Sexual Assault appeared first on BellaNaija - Showcasing Africa to the world. Read today!.

Over the past two months, soaring temperatures across Nigeria have made staying fresh and comfortable more difficult. From navigating crowded spaces in sweltering conditions to repeatedly wiping away sweat, the discomfort has been widespread. For those with active lifestyles or constantly on the move, maintaining proper hygiene has become even more demanding.

Building on the momentum of its first edition, which introduced the #OwnTheSweat campaign to communities across the country, Dettol Cool returned with a more immersive approach. With #OwnTheSweat 2.0, the focus was on deeper, more engaging experiences within environments where movement and physical activity are part of everyday life.

At the centre of this experience is the Dettol Cool antibacterial bar soap. It is designed to support active lifestyles with triple-action benefits: 99% germ protection, a cooling sensation that lowers skin temperature by up to five degrees, and long-lasting defence against body odour, even during intense physical activity.

The initiative came to life through a series of pop-up activations engaging participants in real time and reinforcing the connection between active living and everyday hygiene. Rather than simply promoting freshness, the initiative demonstrated how it fits seamlessly into daily routines.

The campaign kicked off in key fitness hubs across the country. At each location, participants took part in interactive fitness challenges led by trained instructors, transforming routine workouts into engaging experiences. These sessions created a practical link between performance and hygiene, allowing participants to experience the brand in context.

At the Lagos NYSC Camp, the brand engaged corps members through fitness challenges, dance competitions, and interactive quizzes led by fitness instructor, Ekemini “Kemen” Ekerette. Standout participants were crowned as ‘Cool Champions,’ and received Dettol Cool branded merchandise.

Speaking on the campaign, Marketing Director at Reckitt West Africa, Boma Harrison, noted that the initiative #OwnTheSweat was designed to meet Nigerians in their everyday routines. “With #OwnTheSweat2.0 by Dettol Cool, we wanted to go beyond awareness and create real, engaging experiences in spaces where people are most active, such as the gym. It’s about showing that staying cool, fresh and maintaining good hygiene can be simple, even in demanding conditions. You can rely on Dettol Cool to get the job done,” she said.

With #OwnTheSweat 2.0, Dettol Cool reinforces its commitment to supporting active lifestyles and helping Nigerians stay fresh, protected, and confident on the go.

Sponsored Content

The post OwnTheSweat 2.0: How Dettol Cool Showed Nigerians the easy way to stay Cool, Fresh, and Protected appeared first on BellaNaija - Showcasing Africa to the world. Read today!.

The KongaFM Children’s Day Carnival is almost here, and top Nigerian superstars have expressed great enthusiasm about the excitement they are preparing to bring to their audience on the big day.

As families and children across Lagos count down to Saturday, 23rd May 2026 at The Zone Event Centre, Lagos, anticipation continues to build around what is already shaping up to be one of the biggest and most entertaining Children’s Day celebrations of the year.

If you have been wondering whether this carnival is worth attending, the answer is simple — absolutely.

Jeremiah Sax, A 13-year-old super performer who plays the saxophone with so much zest, confidence, and expertise, will be live on stage at the KongaFM Children’s Day Carnival. Jeremiah Sax is one of the brightest young talents to watch, and his remarkable ability to command the stage at such a young age continues to amaze audiences everywhere. His performance promises to inspire children and leave parents genuinely impressed.

Yellow Girl, one of the most energetic and exciting entertainers in the industry, Yellow Girl is bringing her vibrant personality and electrifying stage presence to the carnival. Known for her ability to connect instantly with audiences, she is set to deliver a thrilling performance that will keep the children dancing, singing, and fully entertained throughout her set.

Osh Michael, an Afrobeat sensation, is also set to storm the KongaFM Children’s Day Carnival stage with an energetic performance packed with rhythm, vibes, and crowd engagement. His unique sound and lively delivery make him a perfect fit for a fun-filled celebration designed for children and families.

Femi Jackson, fondly known as Nigeria’s Michael Jackson, is ready to deliver a breathtaking dance performance that will leave the audience stunned. With his incredible dance moves, unmatched stage energy, and iconic performance style, children and parents alike are in for an unforgettable experience once he steps onto the stage.

Hosted by MC Pato, bringing laughter, excitement, and nonstop entertainment to the event is the one and only MC Pato — Nigeria’s comedy CFR MC and one of the most loved entertainers in the country. From games to jokes and audience interaction, MC Pato will keep the atmosphere lively and engaging from start to finish.

Beyond the performances, the KongaFM Children’s Day Carnival promises a complete family experience packed with exciting activities, including a grand march past, cultural displays, competitions, choreography performances, face painting, and several engaging experiences specially designed for children.

Parents will also enjoy exclusive benefits at the Mum’s Corner, including special discounts on genuine Konga products, free Wi-Fi access throughout the venue, and guaranteed security to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for everyone in attendance.

The excitement is building. The stars are ready. The stage is almost set for an unforgettable Children’s Day celebration.

Enrollment is currently open at ₦3,000 per child. Tickets are not available online.

To reserve a spot, simply send a message to:
08036669144 or 08054657002.

The countdown has officially begun; don’t let your child miss this unforgettable experience.

BellaNaija is a Media Partner for Konga.

The post Naija Super Stars Set to Light Up the Stage at the Konga103.7FM Children’s Carnival appeared first on BellaNaija - Showcasing Africa to the world. Read today!.

Mastercard and BMONI, an AI-powered financial platform focused on simplifying access to money, have announced a collaboration to introduce a new generation of virtual and physical payment cards designed to enable seamless local and global transactions for consumers in Nigeria.

Powered by Mastercard’s global payment network, the solution enables users to instantly create multiple Naira and US dollar-denominated virtual and physical cards that are globally accepted and ready for use within seconds, with all card management handled seamlessly within the BMONI app. The collaboration marks one of the first locally issued international card programs in Nigeria, enabled by new card issuance models introduced by Mastercard to accelerate digital payments adoption among fintech companies in the market.

With Nigeria’s e-commerce market projected to exceed $26 billion by 2030, the demand for globally accepted, instantly issued digital payment solutions continues to grow. BMONI’s card offering, built on Mastercard’s trusted network, responds to this shift by enabling users to operate more seamlessly across currencies and everyday spending.

Dr. Folasade Femi-Lawal, country manager, West Africa at Mastercard, said: “Nigeria’s digital economy is growing rapidly, and consumers need payment solutions that keep pace. Our collaboration with BMONI brings together Mastercard’s trusted global network with an innovative platform like BMONI to deliver real value to consumers, instant card access, multi-currency flexibility and seamless transactions across borders.” 

Ashwin Ravichandran, Head of Product at BMONI, said: “At BMONI, our focus has always been simple, which is remove the friction between people and their money. This collaboration with Mastercard allows us to deliver global access and a level of control that simply has not existed before.”

Beyond enabling access, the solution introduces greater control over how users manage their finances. By allowing the creation of multiple cards for different purposes, including everyday spending, subscriptions, travel, savings, cross-border payments and remote work, users can better organize and track their financial activity in real time. It is a practical step toward the speed, convenience and global acceptance, that Nigerian consumers increasingly expect from their financial tools.

The BMONI Mastercard is available now. Users can download the BMONI app via the App Store or Google Play, complete identity verification and begin creating cards instantly.

About BMONI

BMONI is an AI-powered financial platform designed to simplify how individuals access, manage, and move money. The platform enables users to create and manage multiple Naira and US Dollar cards, supporting everyday transactions, cross-border payments, and personalized financial control through a seamless digital experience.

For more information, visit the website

Media contact: marketing@bmoni.com

About Mastercard

Mastercard powers economies and empowers people in 200+ countries and territories worldwide. Together with our customers, we’re building a resilient economy where everyone can prosper. We support a wide range of digital payments choices, making transactions secure, simple, smart and accessible. Our technology and innovation, partnerships and networks combine to deliver a unique set of products and services that help people, businesses and governments realize their greatest potential.

Website

Media contact: kanyi.mwangi@mastercard.com 

Sponsored Content

The post BMONI and Mastercard Partner to Unlock Instant Card Access for Consumers in Nigeria appeared first on BellaNaija - Showcasing Africa to the world. Read today!.

In many cultures, women are viewed as the backbone of families, workplaces, and communities. They constantly care for others, manage various responsibilities, and support everyone around them. However, while juggling these demands, many women unintentionally neglect an essential aspect of their health: their heart health.

As May is Women’s Health Month, I encourage families to pay closer attention to women’s cardiovascular health, particularly because heart disease remains the leading cause of death for women worldwide. Unfortunately, many women are still unaware of their risk factors.

As a Consultant Cardiologist at LECC, I know women do not always experience heart disease the same way men do. While chest pain is a common symptom, women may also notice the following: shortness of breath, unusual fatigue, dizziness, nausea, neck, jaw, or back pain, palpitations and sudden sweating or weakness. Because these symptoms can appear subtle, many women dismiss them as stress, exhaustion, or hormonal changes, delaying medical care until complications become more serious.

Why Women Are at Higher Risk

In Nigerian culture, women are often expected to be strong and self-sacrificing. They are conditioned to endure discomfort and prioritise the needs of others above their own. This cultural expectation can have serious consequences for heart health. Common statements from women who delayed seeking care for heart symptoms include, “I thought it was just stress from work,” and “I had too much to do to go to the hospital.” Unfortunately, by the time these women finally sought help, their condition often became critical. I have seen many cases of such.

Meanwhile, several factors can increase the risk of heart disease, including high blood pressure, diabetes, high cholesterol, smoking, obesity, physical inactivity, chronic stress, and a family history of cardiovascular disease. Additionally, women have unique risk factors that are often overlooked. These include pregnancy complications such as preeclampsia, the use of certain hormonal contraceptives—especially in women who smoke—menopause-related hormonal changes, and conditions like polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS).

Prevention Can Save Lives

Many heart conditions can be prevented or managed through early detection, healthy lifestyle habits, and regular medical check-ups.

Schedule regular check-ups to monitor your blood pressure, cholesterol levels, blood sugar, and body mass index (BMI). Embrace a heart-healthy diet without giving up Nigerian cuisine. Reduce your sodium intake, choose healthy fats like fish and avocados, increase your fibre intake through vegetables, control portion sizes, and limit processed foods.

Incorporate regular physical activity into your routine. Aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise each week. You can take brisk walks, use the stairs, dance to your favourite music, or join community exercise groups.

Effectively manage stress by practising deep breathing, setting boundaries, getting enough sleep, and seeking professional help if you feel overwhelmed. Always take medications as prescribed. If you’ve been prescribed medications for blood pressure, cholesterol, or diabetes, make sure to take them consistently as directed.

The Best Gift You Can Give a Woman Is Better Health

This Women’s Health Month, honour the women in your life by encouraging them to prioritise their health, book regular screenings, and take their heart health seriously. A simple check-up could make all the difference. For instance, at LECC, we remain committed to supporting women through expert cardiovascular care, preventive screenings, and patient education. Because healthier women build healthier families, healthier communities, and healthier futures.

The post Dr. Folasade Alli: Why Heart Disease Is the Leading Killer of Women — and How to Prevent It appeared first on BellaNaija - Showcasing Africa to the world. Read today!.

Inverroche Gin has always stood for something beyond the liquid in the bottle. The premium craft Gin, founded by Lorna Scott and distributed in Nigeria under Pernod Ricard, was built on dedication, purpose, and a belief in backing communities that reflect those same values. On May 12th, 2026, that belief took its most direct form yet: the launch of BartendHer, a platform created specifically to give Nigeria’s female bartenders the visibility, recognition, and community they deserve.

The inaugural BartendHer event took place in Lekki, Lagos, bringing together female bartenders, industry leaders, and senior public figures for an afternoon built around craft and professional recognition. The Honourable Minister for Women Affairs attended, commending the initiative and reaffirming support for programmes that elevate women-led industries. Dr. Godrey Ogbechie, Group Executive Director of Rainoil, Dr. Adedayo Benjamins-Laniyi, Pioneer Mandate Secretary for the Women Secretariat FCTA, and the Honourable Commissioner for Youths, Lagos State, Mr. Bolaji Ogunlende, were also present, lending the occasion a weight that reflected how seriously this space is now being taken.

The afternoon opened with the bartenders themselves taking centre stage. Myad Omile, founder of The Thirsty Nerd and a seven-year industry veteran, spoke about the daily reality of having her expertise questioned before she had made a single drink. Rosemary Aliri of Rose Bar Events spoke about choosing professional excellence and perseverance in the face of workplace challenges. Happiness Cletus of The Bar Muse brought the ambition: female bartenders are relevant, strong, and ready to compete globally. BartendHer is a platform founded by Lara Rawa, spirits curator and long-time mentor to many of the women in that room, who has spent years building community around Nigeria’s cocktail and spirits scene. For Lara, the afternoon was not the end of anything. It was an entry point, and she made that clear by directing every bartender present to BartendHer.ng, where they can join the community and access upcoming mentorship programmes. Inverroche Gin created the conditions for that vision to take shape.

That deliberate commitment ran through every aspect of the afternoon. Guests enjoyed cocktails crafted with Inverroche Gin throughout, reinforcing the brand’s presence not as a logo on a backdrop but as the liquid at the heart of the experience. Ebere Aham, Market Lead for Inverroche Gin, addressed the bartenders directly: “People see the final drink. People don’t see the long hours. People don’t see the emotional intelligence, the work that goes into curating the final glass. Day after day, you’re true to your craft.” It was a statement that connected the bartenders in the room to the founding ethos of Inverroche Gin itself.

The afternoon closed with professional headshots for each of the female bartenders present. A practical gesture with real meaning. For women whose expertise is still being questioned in too many rooms, being photographed professionally and published is one more step toward being taken seriously.

BartendHer is now a platform at BartendHer.ng, where bartenders can register, join the community, and access mentorship. Inverroche Gin backed it from the beginning, before the numbers are in, when the commitment means the most.

#InverrocheNG #BartendHer. Drink Inverroche Responsibly. 18+

Sponsored Content

The post Inverroche Gin spotlights Nigeria’s female bartenders with the launch of BartendHer appeared first on BellaNaija - Showcasing Africa to the world. Read today!.

The Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) has a new registrar!

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has appointed Professor Segun Aina to lead the board, succeeding Professor Is-haq Oloyede, whose two term tenure expires on July 31, 2026. Professor Aina, who will be 40 in July, is a distinguished academic and systems expert with extensive experience in national examination systems, digital infrastructure, and public sector institutional reform. He makes history as JAMB’s youngest registrar.

If his name sounds familiar, it is because he is a major trailblazer in academia. At 39, he became one of Nigeria’s youngest Computer Engineering professors at Obafemi Awolowo University, Ile Ife. Interestingly, his journey with JAMB actually comes full circle, as he began his career with the board during his National Youth Service, gaining foundational experience in national admissions and data driven institutional processes. Those early insights have shaped his ongoing contributions to examination reform and systems optimisation.

Professor Aina operates at the intersection of technology, policy, and institutional transformation. He holds a Bachelor of Engineering in Computer Systems Engineering from the University of Kent, an MSc in Internet Computing and Network Security, and a PhD in Digital Signal Processing, both from Loughborough University in the United Kingdom. He has also completed the Senior Management Programme at Lagos Business School.

With over 15 years of post graduation experience, he has advised federal and state governments on system design, digital transition, and operational reform. He has also served as a consultant to major examination bodies, including NECO, NABTEB, and various State Ministries of Education, providing expertise on ICT systems, examination integrity, and digital process optimization.

He is a member of several professional bodies, including the Council for the Regulation of Engineering in Nigeria (COREN), the Nigerian Society of Engineers (NSE), the Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers (IEEE), and the Institution of Engineering and Technology (IET).

President Tinubu Appoints Professor Segun Aina As New JAMB Registrar.@JAMBHQ pic.twitter.com/QkT8CDH5kn

— Presidency Nigeria (@NGRPresident) May 21, 2026

The post Meet Segun Aina, the 39-Year-Old Computer Engineering Professor Appointed as JAMB Registrar appeared first on BellaNaija - Showcasing Africa to the world. Read today!.

The AMVCA is basically the ultimate “Who is Who” of African entertainment, and this year, Guinness made sure we knew they were there. From the red carpet (well, Black Carpet) to the final after-party fun, the brand was doing the most in the best way possible, showing they understood the assignment and a genuine appreciation for African culture, style and storytelling.

Fashion took centre stage most beautifully. The Guinness Most Rated Best Dressed Award invited the public to vote for their favourite looks of the evening, and the celebrities and guests responded with remarkable enthusiasm. When the votes were tallied, Sultana and Faith, two beloved former BBNaija housemates, were crowned the winning pair.

Both winners were dressed with the kind of bold confidence that makes a room stop and stare. They each received a ₦1 million prize, a fitting reward for two looks that clearly captured the imagination of an entire country.

The Guinness Black Carpet set the tone early as a stunning hub for photo and video moments, giving guests the space to be seen and the brand an immersive presence that extended well beyond the venue.

Guinness also sponsored the Best Director category, won by the director of The Father’s Shadow, demonstrating a commitment to honouring the craft behind African cinema alongside the glamour of the evening.

Tiwa, Fave and BNXN delivered live performances that had the audience completely captivated, and a dedicated Guinness lounge kept the energy high throughout. The night closed out at the official after-party, rounding off a truly full and memorable showing from a brand that clearly understands what celebrating African excellence really means.

Sponsored Content

The post From Best Dressed Moments to Live Performances, Guinness Owned the AMVCA Experience appeared first on BellaNaija - Showcasing Africa to the world. Read today!.

Temi Ajibade and her husband Mr Eazi coordinate in matching all-white attire for a serene, black-and-white double frame from her pregnancy shoot ahead of announcing the arrival of their first child in May 2026. Photo Credit: Temi Ajibade/Instagram

It is literally raining babies on our timelines right now and honestly, nobody should stop the rain! Just yesterday, we were all screaming and getting emotional over Sharon Ooja welcoming her baby boy, and now Temi Ajibade and Mr Eazi have jumped into the chat with their own beautiful news.

Temi just took to Instagram to announce that they are expecting their first baby, using the most beautiful caption: “Before I formed you in the womb I knew you, Before you were born I set you apart.”

You already know Temi is a fashion girlie, so of course her maternity shoot is doing exactly what it’s supposed to do.

In the first photo, which is a black-and-white double frame, she and Mr Eazi are matching in all-white. He’s standing behind her holding her chin while she leans back against him, showing off just a little bit of her bump under her shirt.

Temi Ajibade and her husband Mr Eazi coordinate in matching all-white attire for a serene, black-and-white double frame from her pregnancy shoot ahead of announcing the arrival of their first child in May 2026. Photo Credit: Temi Ajibade/Instagram

The next slides of photos are in full colour and it’s just Temi looking like a literal breath of fresh air. She has her hair in these gorgeous auburn waves and she’s wearing a white crop top with a long matching skirt, plus a cozy grey cardigan draped off her shoulders.

It feels like just yesterday we were obsessed with their three-part wedding that touched down in Monaco, Dubai, and Iceland. Now, they are getting ready for the ultimate next step.

The Nigerian entertainment space is really just one big nursery right now and we are here for it. Temi is joining a whole club of new mummies this season, right after Sharon Ooja and Ugo Nwoke’s baby boy WIN, Veekee James welcoming her daughter Eliana, and Ini Dima-Okojie announcing her pregnancy just last month.

Huge congratulations to Temi and Eazi!

 

View this post on Instagram

 

A post shared by Temiloluwa Ajibade (@temiotedola)

The post Temi Ajibade and Mr Eazi Are Expecting Their First Child! appeared first on BellaNaija - Showcasing Africa to the world. Read today!.

Photo credit: Adut Akesh/Instagram

One thing we love almost as much as a good baby announcement is a fashionable pregnancy era, and Sudanese-Australian supermodel Adut Akech is serving exactly that once again as she shares new maternity portraits.

In the latest shoot, Adut poses in a knitted white look that gently frames her baby bump, keeping the styling minimal and intentional. Her full, flowing curls fall around her shoulders, adding texture to the black-and-white portraits.

Back when she first shared the news of her pregnancy, Adut revealed she was expecting her second child in a heartfelt announcement that also featured her daughter, Kiki, who is already preparing for her new role as a big sister. That moment introduced this journey to the world, and these new images feel like a continuation of it.

See more photos from the shoot below.

 

View this post on Instagram

 

A post shared by BellaNaija (@bellanaija)

The post Adut Akech Drops New Pregnancy Photos and We’re Loving Them appeared first on BellaNaija - Showcasing Africa to the world. Read today!.

The heat didn’t arrive all at once. At first, Pere noticed it in small ways—bread that cost a little more each week, bus fares that suddenly increased, the quiet disappearance of things people once took for granted. Lagos had always been loud, crowded, restless. Now it felt strained, as a drum stretched too tight, one good strike away from tearing.

He clung to a different story. “This is the year of double,” Pastor had declared back in January, sweat shimmering on his forehead as the choir’s voice rose behind him. “Double portion, double favour. This administration will favour you and your family. Confess it. Say only what you want to see.” So Pere did.

Each morning, he stood in front of the cracked mirror and spoke the words over his reflection. “Ah, this administration will favour my family and me. Things are getting better.” He watched his own lips move, as if the certainty might one day reach his eyes.

At the printing shop, the generator coughed before catching, rattling like an old man’s lungs. Fuel prices rose so often that the new figures on the board felt temporary, like someone could come in any moment to wipe them and write another. The boss spent more time with his calculator than with customers, punching buttons, frowning, sighing.

When clients stopped printing party flyers and wedding programs and came only for CVs and affidavits, Pere noticed. When they started saying, “I’ll collect it next week, I don’t have the money yet,” he noticed that too. He noticed the way the boss’s eyes drifted to him, then away, like a man rehearsing bad news.

But noticing was different from naming.

At home, the adjustment was practical. Less meat in the soup. More water. Rice stretched for one more day. Seiyefa, his younger sister, began calling her hunger fasting, even on days when there was nothing particularly spiritual about it. Their mother stopped talking about “what we’ll cook tomorrow” and started saying “we’ll see.”

Everywhere, small shifts. The fan stayed still all afternoon. The landlord’s voice, losing its friendliness and keeping only its firmness. The neighbours’ generator that once hummed cheerfully at night was now silent more often than not.

In the evenings, when the power cut out and the room sank into darkness, Pere would lie on his mattress, heat pressing down on his chest, and replay Pastor’s words like a recording. Say only what you want to see. This administration will favour you. Things are getting better.

One night, the landlord came and spoke to their mother at the door. The conversation was low, but Pere could not miss the throat-cutting word: arrears, others waiting, cannot continue like this. When the door closed, Pere looked at his mother’s tired face, at the way she avoided his eyes.

“We’ll pay,” he said. “God is working.”

She nodded, slow and automatic, as if the gesture belonged more to habit than hope.

The next morning, Pere lost two workdays. “You’re not fired,” the boss said. “We’re just reducing the work days, for now.” On the bus home, squeezed between bodies that smelled of sweat and frustration, Pere watched Lagos slide by: women under sun-bleached umbrellas selling less than they used to, men standing idle where queues for work once formed, billboards with smiling politicians promising “Hope” while potholes yawned below.

He whispered under his breath, “This administration will favour me. It will favour my family. Things are getting better.” The words felt like a thin sheet held up against a forest fire.

At home, the air was thick and still. Seiyefa lay on the floor, where the tiles were marginally cooler than the mattress. The pot on the stove was small and smelled mostly of Maggi and pepper. There was no meat at all. Pere washed his hands at the plastic bucket, took his plate, sat, and began to eat. No one asked, “Is that enough?” Silence did that work for them.

Later, as darkness folded over the house, the three of them sat in the heat. Outside, someone’s radio tried to sound cheerful, crackling with a presenter talking about growth figures and reforms. The generator in the next compound started, groaned, and stopped. Pere lay back and stared at the ceiling he could barely see.

He thought of the church, of the pastor’s smooth suit and shining shoes, of the polished floor and cold air conditioning. He thought of the words: double, favour, breakthrough, harvest. He thought of his own voice in the mirror, insisting that things were getting better while everything around him shrank.

The strange thing was not that life was getting harder. It was how natural the hardness had begun to feel. Each cutback made the next easier to accept. Each small loss made room for a bigger one. Less food. Less work. Less sleep. He told himself he was strong. That he was enduring, that to complain was to confess defeat.

But lying there, sweat gathering at his neck, the darkness buzzing with mosquitoes and distant generators, a different thought edged in. What if calling this “favour” did not change what it was? What if all his declarations were not shields, but blindfolds? He did not say it aloud. He did not dare. The habit of “right confession” was strong, a rope wrapped tight around his tongue. Yet the thought stayed. He had accepted each new degree as normal. He had baptised every discomfort with hopeful language until he could no longer tell faith from fear.

It occurred to him that he had not been climbing toward anything. He had just been sitting very still. Like the metaphoric frog. In water that had been heating for a long, long time.

The post BN Prose: This Administration Will Favour Me and My Family by Toyosi Onikosi appeared first on BellaNaija - Showcasing Africa to the world. Read today!.

Photo credit/ Timini Egbuson/Instagram

In entertainment, film and fashion often move together. Just like music artists use style as part of their identity, actors also use fashion to express who they are off-screen. And honestly, there is something about a man who understands both that always stands out.

Timini Egbuson fits right into that space. He is not just an actor, he also knows how to show up when it comes to style. Over time, he has become one of Nollywood’s most stylish actors, with a clear sense of how to put a look together.

His style is pretty simple. He starts with classic tailoring, then switches things up with texture, accessories, and small details that change the whole vibe. He is not boxed in by fashion rules and that is what makes it work.

Here are five looks that show how he is redefining modern tailoring.

Timini in Light Blue and Pearls

This look for his last birthday, styled by Zackstyling, is a great example of how to make tailoring look fresh. He is wearing a long, light blue coat by T.I Nathan paired with high-waisted black trousers, a clean white shirt, and shiny black dress shoes.

The accessories are really what make the outfit here. He layers multiple long pearl necklaces and gold chains over the shirt, which completely changes the mood of the clothing. Finishing the look with dark sunglasses and earrings gives the whole outfit a smooth finish.

Timini in a Classic Three-Piece Look

The “Lagos Peaky Blinders” theme for the “Gingerr” movie premiere was a specific look to pull off, but Timini handled it smoothly. Styled by Yomi Daj and wearing T.I Nathan, he pairs a long black coat featuring a textured lapel with a grey waistcoat and pinstripe trousers. White shirt, patterned tie, and high-heeled black leather boots complete the base of the outfit.

The accessories are what really nail the vintage vibe here. He adds a plaid newsboy cap, a pocket watch chain across his waist, grey gloves, and small sunglasses. Mixing these old-school details with the sharp tailoring gives the look a distinct, stylised appearance without making it feel like a costume.

Timini in Velvet and Eyelet Details

Mo Abudu’s 60th birthday called for sophisticated evening wear, and Timini delivered with a sharp look styled by Swankyjerry. He is wearing an all-black velvet suit by Deji & Kola that relies on texture rather than colour to make an impact. The blazer and the sides of the trousers feature metallic eyelet rings running down the edges, giving the classic fabric a distinct, modern update.

Instead of a traditional button-down shirt, he wears a dark, silky top with an oversized scarf detail at the neck. The outfit is finished with pointed black shoes and square-frame tinted sunglasses, keeping the monochromatic look interesting.

Timini in Monochrome Red

Timini literally painted the town red for the “Red Circle” movie premiere. Styled by Whytace, he wore a bright, head-to-toe red outfit. The top is structured with a high neck and has silver studs along the edges, and he pairs it with matching wide-leg trousers.

The sleeves are extra long with big cuffs that give the look a different shape than your usual suit. He keeps everything else simple by just adding dark sunglasses and letting the bright red colour do all the talking.

Timini in Royal Blue Velvet

As a cast member in the record-breaking movie “A Tribe Called Judah,” Timini turned up for the premiere in a standout look styled by Swankyjerry. He wore a rich royal blue velvet blazer by Deji & Kola. He paired the bold jacket with wide-leg black trousers, a dark shirt, and a classic black bow tie.

The styling details are really what keep it from looking like a standard tuxedo. He pinned a large, silver cross brooch onto the lapel of the jacket and wore square-frame sunglasses studded with rhinestones. The combination of the velvet fabric with these bright, iced-out accessories gives the entire look a premium finish.

The post Timini Egbuson Is One of Nollywood’s Best Dressed Men and Here’s Why appeared first on BellaNaija - Showcasing Africa to the world. Read today!.

The official YouTube thumbnail for Episode 1 of Bare by BKO, Tiwi Remi’s new podcast, titled Digital Footprint: Are You Really Not on Any Socials, released in May 2026

Have you ever done something that completely takes you out of your comfort zone? Tiwi Remi — wife of Nollywood actor Kunle Remi — has, and she is documenting every bit of it. The quietly private entrepreneur has launched a brand new YouTube podcast called Bare by BKO, and the first episode is already out.

What makes this launch particularly interesting is who Tiwi is away from the camera. She does not have Instagram, TikTok, or any popular social media apps installed on her personal phone. LinkedIn is the only platform she considers herself present on, and when she needs to check anything else online, she occasionally uses her husband’s phone. So launching a podcast on YouTube, in front of a camera, is a significant personal stretch — and in the first episode, she says exactly that. “This is probably going to be the hardest episode for this podcast I’ve ever done,” she opens, describing a lump in her throat and physical tension as she speaks. “There are so many reasons why I shouldn’t even be starting a podcast on YouTube, out in the flesh, because I’ve done such a good job for years of keeping my life relatively private.”

For the first episode, she sat in a warm, softly lit setting wearing a bicolour knit cardigan split down the middle in black and white with ornamental floral buttons, layered gold necklaces, and black nail polish. Tiwi married Kunle Remi in a private ceremony in late 2023, with a white wedding following on 1 January 2024. The couple welcomed their first child, a daughter named Wonder, in March 2025.

Watch the first episode of Bare by BKO below

The post Tiwi Remi Is Officially a Podcaster! Watch the First Episode of “Bare by BKO” appeared first on BellaNaija - Showcasing Africa to the world. Read today!.

Sharon Ooja and her husband Ugo Nwoke photographed together during her pregnancy shoot ahead of announcing the birth of their first child, a baby boy, in May 2026. Photo Credit: Sharon Ooja Nwoke/Instagram 

The most joyful news just hit our timelines and if you are not smiling by the end of this sentence, keep reading. Sharon Ooja has become a mummy! The Nollywood actress and her husband Ugo Nwoke have welcomed their first child, a baby boy, and the announcement she shared on Instagram has us genuinely emotional in the best possible way.

Less than two years after her stunning three-part wedding celebration in June 2024 — a traditional ceremony, a civil wedding, and a white wedding — Sharon is now a mother, and she could not be more grateful. She shared the news alongside pregnancy photos that show exactly why she kept this pregnancy so beautifully private.

For her maternity shoot, she wore a minimalist black bralette showcasing her bare baby bump, paired with oversized cargo trousers in an earthy grey-taupe shade and a matching button-down shirt tied casually at the waist. Her hair was styled into a full cloud of natural curls, and her husband stood beside her, peace sign up, matching her energy entirely. The two of them together looked every bit like people living in the middle of something wonderful.

Sharon Ooja and husband Ugo Nwoke celebrate during her maternity shoot, Sharon raising one arm in joy while Ugo flashes a peace sign, both wearing matching grey and black outfits. Photo Credit: Sharon Ooja Nwoke/Instagram 

Her caption was the full testimony. “I just gave birth to the most handsome baby boy I have ever seen,” she wrote. “2025/2026 — God truly ushered me into the most beautiful years of my life and wrote a story that only He can take the glory for.” She revealed the baby’s initials are W.I.N., and signed off with: “You can officially call me mama win, the yummiest mummy on the block.” She also had deeply moving words for her husband: “Thank you for loving me so fiercely and beautifully through every stage of our pregnancy. The prayers, reassurance, back rubs, trips, baths, endless gifts, food runs and the way you carried me emotionally and spiritually these past nine months — baby, you are truly everything.”

Sharon Ooja in a solo maternity shoot portrait, photographed in a studio setting as she prepares to welcome her first child with husband Ugo Nwoke in 2026. Photo Credit: Sharon Ooja Nwoke/Instagram 

Sharon joins a growing and beautiful wave of Nollywood women stepping into motherhood this season. Veekee James welcomed her daughter Eliana Adeife Atere on 2 May 2026, and Ini Dima–Okojie announced her pregnancy just last month.

Has this not been the most amazing season? See more of Sharon’s pregnancy photos below.

 

View this post on Instagram

 

A post shared by Sharon ooja Nwoke (@sharonooja)

The post It’s a Baby Boy! Sharon Ooja and Ugo Nwoke Welcome Their First Child appeared first on BellaNaija - Showcasing Africa to the world. Read today!.

The response has been overwhelming.

Since KongaFM announced the upcoming Children’s Day Carnival, the interest from Lagos families has been nothing short of extraordinary. Across social media, the messages and questions have been pouring in, and that alone tells a story. When this many parents are asking questions, it means one thing: nobody wants to miss out.

So in the spirit of keeping every family fully informed and ready, KongaFM is addressing the most frequently asked questions directly, because a great experience starts with great preparation.

The carnival runs from 9AM to 5PM on Saturday, 23rd May 2026 at The Zone Event Centre, Lagos. That is a full eight hours of fun, performances, competitions, and memories — so come early and make the most of every moment.

Tickets are not available online, but booking is straightforward. Simply send a message to 08054657002 to reserve your spot. Given the level of interest already generated, early booking is strongly encouraged; spaces are filling up fast.

With just N3000 you can secure a ticket for your child. Parents and Guardians do not pay anything.

As a school proprietor, you can register students in your school , 15, 20, 30, 50 and above

Great Activities are lined up for the Carnival

• March Past Competition
• Dance Competition
• Music Performances
• Cultural/ Special Presentations
• Bouncy Castle
• Face Painting
• Red Carpet interviews

Guess what, KongaFM has got the little ones covered. Small chops and drinks will be provided for all children attending the carnival, because no great celebration is complete without great refreshments.

Special Food Vendors will be available to sell Food.

There is no specific dress code for children, so feel free to let the kids come in whatever makes them feel most comfortable and ready to have fun.

Students and schools competing will be in their School uniform.

KongaFM is just a message away. Reach out via: 08036669144 or 08054657002

We have corporate partners supporting the KongaFM Children’s Day Carnival, they include

• So Yummy,
• TD Africa,
• Zinox,
• Samsung,
• Kivo,
• G Delite,
• Nature’s Sip Treat,
• Nutriq Yoghurt,
• Checkers Custard,
• Viju,  
• Vitali ,
• Masters Noodles,
• Konga Pay
• TD iLife,
• Task Systems,
• Konga Health is all on board with great packages for children
• The Mum’s Corner* is where you can buy highly discounted family products. Parents, this is for you.

Alright, the questions have been answered. The stage is set. Konga is ready for you. Secure your child’s ticket now.

Konga FM Children’s Day Carnival is powered by Young Stars Corner on Konga 103.7Fm a weekly Children’s show that airs every Saturday at 11 am.

A grooming place for Young Stars.

Sponsored Content

The post Everything You Need to Know About the Konga103.7 FM Children’s Day Carnival — Your Questions Answered appeared first on BellaNaija - Showcasing Africa to the world. Read today!.

There’s something about Eid in Nigeria that no other celebration quite captures. You see it in the early morning rush and the sound of water boiling. You see it in irons pressing agbadas and kaftans and children sneaking one last look at the outfit they laid out the night before. But this time, there is something deeper in the air. A quiet understanding of sacrifice, obedience, and generosity.

From Lagos to Ilorin, Kano to Ibadan, Eid el Kabir or Big Sallah, as many of us grew up calling it, is a feeling that lives in our homes, our food and our people through the small rituals that make everything come alive.

Here’s what celebrating Eid truly looks like for many of us, and how to make every moment of it count.

1. The House Must “Smell Like Eid”
Before the visitors arrive, before the food is even ready, and before the children are fully dressed and accounted for, there’s one thing that must be right first. The atmosphere must be perfect.

Floors are swept twice, sometimes three times and chairs are rearranged. If the mood is serious enough, curtains that have been hanging unbothered since January are pulled down, washed, and rehung. And then comes the final touch: the scent. Whether it’s Turaren Wuta or another favorite incense, diffuser, or scented candle, that moment when the fragrance fills the room is when it truly starts to feel like Eid.

It’s a small touch that makes all the difference. and the right lighter ensures it comes to life effortlessly, every single time. The BIC EZ Reach Lighter steps in perfectly here. Its extended wand keeps your fingers safely away from the heat while you light deep candles or incense burners.

2. The Food Is a Statement

Eid food in Nigeria is never casual. It does not arrive without thought or leave without a lasting impression. It is intentional, layered, and generous in a way that says something about the person who made it.

There’s always that one pot that draws everyone in. It might be jollof rice or the stew the cook started before anyone else was awake. And of course, there’s the meat which is grilled, spiced and shared with portions going out to neighbors before the family has even sat down.

Outside in the compound, you will often find a small grill going with someone fanning charcoal with a patience that is itself a kind of prayer. These moments do not wait and they do not accommodate equipment that gives trouble. You need things to work the first time especially when getting the fire going. The BIC Mega Lighter simply handles this heavy lifting. Its extra-long reach and strong flame safely light up charcoal pots and outdoor grills so nothing interrupts the rhythm of the feast.

3. Visiting Is the Real Celebration

After the Eid prayers, the movement begins. Phones start ringing with friends asking where you are and playfully warning you not to finish the food before they arrive. People step out in their finest flowing agbadas with perfumes trailing behind them. Children proudly show off their new outfits that took three weeks of tailor negotiations and two fittings to produce, while waiting patiently for their crisp Naira notes.

Homes that are usually private become open spaces. Strangers from the neighborhood become guests and friends turn to family before the afternoon is over. And even if you didn’t plan to go out, somehow you find yourself in two or three different houses before the day ends. This constant movement and deliberate visiting of people you love makes Eid in Nigeria feel alive in a way that no other celebration quite matches.

4. The Little Gifts and Big Meanings

Not every gift during this season comes wrapped. Sometimes it’s money folded into the palm of a child who has been strategically greeting every adult since 8am, fully aware that enthusiasm is its own currency today. Sometimes it’s food packed for “later” that never actually makes it home. Sometimes it’s something small but thoughtful, chosen because the giver was thinking about you.

That’s the beauty of Eid. It’s not really about the amount spent but about how present and helpful you are. It is about the act of seeing someone and saying with whatever you have that I thought of you today. If you are packing a gift bag for a neighbor or a friend, slipping in a classic BIC Pocket Lighter is a thoughtful touch. It is a reliable everyday essential that fits perfectly into a pocket or purse and lights on the first flick whenever it is needed.

5. The Quiet Moments Matter Too

After the visits, after the food, after the children have finally crashed from the sugar and the excitement and the weight of their new shoes, there’s always a quieter side to Eid. A moment to sit back. To reflect. To breathe. Maybe it’s later in the evening, when the house is calm again. Someone grabs that BIC EZ Reach Lighter to light a candle, or incense goes on, not for guests this time, but to let the fragrance settle the day and fill the room with comfort and calm. The adults sit together, talking about nothing in particular and everything that actually matters, like who came and who said what.

These softer moments are not an afterthought of Eid. They are, in many ways, just as important. The season was always about gratitude and togetherness and in the quiet of the evening, with the day still warm around you, all of those things settle into the room at once.

Eid in Nigeria is many things happening at once. It is energy and calm wrapped together. It is food and faith mixing with movement and stillness. And in all of it, it’s the little details and the things that work without stress, that make the experience complete.

From all of us at BIC Nigeria, Eid el Kabir.
May your home be full, your food plenty, and your moments truly lit.

Sponsored Content

The post The Season of Sacrifice: How We Truly Celebrate Eid in Nigeria appeared first on BellaNaija - Showcasing Africa to the world. Read today!.

Nigeria’s leading etiquette specialist, author, and social development advocate, Etienying Akpanusong, popularly known as Lady Eti, has unveiled yet another groundbreaking educational project aimed at shaping the future of Nigerian children through value-based learning and character development.

The book series titled The Etiquette Adventure is a children’s etiquette storybook collection designed to teach young readers essential life skills including civility, confidence, hygiene, communication skills, emotional intelligence, empathy, cultural respect, sportsmanship, leadership, and social refinement in an engaging and relatable format.

The official unveiling took place on Monday, May 18, 2026, during the National Caregivers Summit 2026 held at the National Centre for Women Development, Abuja. The summit was hosted in collaboration with the Federal Ministry of Women Affairs and Social Development and Etiquette Africa as part of activities commemorating the 2026 National Children’s Day celebration under the theme: “Future Now: Promoting Inclusion in Every Nigerian Child.”

The landmark event attracted dignitaries and stakeholders from across the education, development, and social impact sectors including representatives of UN Women, UNICEF, Caring Africa, educators, caregivers, school administrators, and members of Etiquette Africa Clubs from government schools across the Federal Capital Territory.

The book was officially unveiled by the Honourable Minister of Women Affairs, Hajia Imaan Sulaiman-Ibrahim, who commended Lady Eti and the entire Etiquette Africa team for their consistency and commitment towards promoting values, civility, refinement, and intentional child development across Nigeria.

In her remarks, the Honourable Minister emphasized the importance of strengthening the care economy and advancing inclusive child development through intentional caregiving, value reorientation, and social education. She noted that initiatives such as The Etiquette Adventure strongly align with the Ministry’s vision of building a more inclusive and responsible generation of Nigerian children.

She further appreciated the members of Etiquette Africa Clubs present at the summit and applauded Etiquette Africa Initiative for its immense contribution towards instilling positive values and life skills in children and teenagers across the nation.

Also present at the summit was the wife of the Chief of Defence Staff, Oghogho Musa, alongside development partners, teachers, caregivers, government representatives, and advocates for child development and social inclusion.

Speaking during the unveiling, Lady Eti described The Etiquette Adventure as more than a storybook series, but a transformational educational tool created to help children build character, confidence, emotional intelligence, social awareness, and respectful behavior from an early age.

According to her, the project was inspired by the urgent need to intentionally nurture a more refined, compassionate, disciplined, and socially responsible generation of African children.

Over the years, Lady Eti has continued to establish herself as one of Nigeria’s foremost voices in etiquette education, youth refinement, and human capital development through her work with Etiquette Africa and ETI Global Academy. Through school outreaches, advocacy campaigns, media engagements, and youth development initiatives, she has impacted thousands of children and young people across Nigeria with transformational life skills and refinement education.

The unveiling of The Etiquette Adventure marks another major milestone in the ongoing mission to promote civility, social excellence, and holistic child development in Africa.

Sponsored Content

The post Leading Voice in Etiquette and Civility Lady Eti, Launches ‘The Etiquette Adventure’ At The 2026 National Caregivers Summit. appeared first on BellaNaija - Showcasing Africa to the world. Read today!.

Arsenal FC players celebrating winning the 2025/26 Premier League in the locker room. Photo credit: Arsenal/X

If you’re not a football aficionado, you might probably wonder what all the fuss is about. Arsenal Football Club winning the English Premier League ordinarily shouldn’t be a big deal, given the rich history of the club, until you really understand the backstory. In my family, there are a few things that we have a consensus on. Aside from faith, another is supporting The Arsenal. It’s quite the irony when someone like me finds it hard to put into words the effect Arsenal’s style of football had on us as children. Our very own papilo, Nwankwo Kanu, was a big pull for the Nigerian and wider African audiences at the time. Before tiki taka became a thing, Arsène Wenger had shaped the club into a team that played the most attractive football. I was there as a little boy when The Invincibles won the 2003/2004 Premier League season, conquering the league without losing a single match. I remember how the fans christened Thierry Henry as “Igwe”. It doesn’t matter that we supported a London club while residing in Lagos; Arsenal was our club. Ever since then, it’s been more than two decades of trying to recapture that magic in a bottle.

Banter FC

Speaking of bottles, it was becoming an unwanted tag that the club was associated with: a bottle job, the ‘almost’ guys, always the bridesmaid but never the bride. One of the most heartbreaking matches I watched as a fan was the final of the UEFA Champions League twenty years ago. Despite being a man down, we nearly crossed the line against Barcelona. There have been several near misses in competing for major honours in recent years, but being runners-up for three consecutive seasons easily tops the list of frustrating times. FA Cups are great, but nothing compares to the league. It has been a long and arduous journey. Quite frankly, embarrassing at many points. Watching other teams pick up trophies almost turned me into bad belle, but I thank God because say e no too deep like that.

You know Arsenal is a big club when other supporters who usually don’t see eye to eye on football topics find common ground in taking swipes at us. It was even said that men who support Arsenal are simps because they stay loyal to their partners even when the relationship isn’t mutually beneficial. Trust me, this feels like we just got a huge monkey off our backs. You needed really good cardio to watch Arsenal games because the heartbreaks were on steroids. It’s the hope that kills you; the trauma of starting a season with great energy only for it to end in tears was crazy work. At some point, it looked like GTA 6 would be released before Arsenal ended the trophy drought. Make no mistake, winning the league isn’t just the completion of our redemption arc; this is bragging rights!

Trusting The Process

At some point, the handwriting was on the wall. The club needed to move into its post-Wenger era. However, filling the shoes of le professeur was no small feat. This wasn’t just another job opening; there was a legacy to preserve. The leadership of the club tried what many considered the best available option at the time, but the disconnect was just too obvious. Enter Mikel Arteta. Yes, he was a former player at the club under Wenger and was an assistant to one of football’s greatest coaches, but he had no managerial experience of his own. Winning the FA Cup only helped him buy some time, but the crown jewel was always bringing the Premier League trophy home to the Emirates. I’m not gonna lie, I wasn’t the biggest Arteta fan out there. I just couldn’t see the vision; it also didn’t help that we didn’t qualify for the Champions League in those first two seasons. Big shout out to the Kroenkes, even when some sections of the gooners wanted a change, they stuck to their guns and just let Mikel cook. They stood ten toes and accepted the mission.

It wasn’t until my gaffer started to clean house by getting rid of some characters in the team that I began to clock it. When he made Raya the first-choice goalie, I was up in arms, then he proved me wrong again. Man was moving like prime Thomas Shelby, who famously says, “I have made arrangements with men I trust.” He wasn’t just doing shrewd business in the transfer market, but he wanted to change the culture at the club. I could smell what the club was cooking when we brought in players like Big Decs for a hundred million quid, then I knew we were serious about this title thing. He built this team brick by brick and made us believe again. All I could do from that point on was support the team and let it all work out (and it did!) The future is bright because we’ve got super Mik Arteta!

Let Me Talk To The Opps For A Sec

The north remembers how you lots were moving funny, rival fans trolling us on the internet and calling us choke artists. Even pundits who had failed at coaching were talking smack about Arsenal every week on television. Laughed at us when we were losing, but when we started getting our ducks in a row, we were labelled “Set Piece FC”. Since 2004, when we climbed the ladder, you envied us like Nevada, but it never mattered. We’re used to this, numb to that – as fans, we just knew we gotta adapt. To the rest of you, the non-believers: I shouldn’t even be shocked to see you not staying the course because you always made your career off of switching teams up. The apologies have to be as loud as the disrespect, that’s all I’m saying. Winning is problematic; people like you more when you’re working towards something, not when you have it. Now the banter will no longer hit like before; it will be harder to hide behind ‘analysis’ to score brownie points. You know what’s coming, but you’re not ready for it: this isn’t just a W but the beginning of dominance. Be humble, eh. Your faves know they are gonna be put in a spliff from next season. How do you feel now when we’ve got the champagne on ice?

We Used To Pray For Times Like This

Over the last few weeks, I had bragged about the things I would do when Arsenal eventually won the league, but when it actually happened, I was too overwhelmed to do any of those things. I didn’t know how to act. I even had some lines written down for the fans’ party of the final day of the season, including one for my starboy, Bukayo: “E ba mi toju Oluwa Saka, omo iya mi o!” I am particularly happy that a new generation of young gooners will get to see this version of Arsenal succeed and not just the endless references to a storied past. This is not Nostalgia FC, this is Arsenal freaking FC. From hoping for a fourth-place finish every season to playing in the Champions League final, we have really come a long way. The Unforgettables? I dare say, when Arsenal wins Europe’s most prestigious club competition, I want a statue of Arteta outside the Emirates in short order, and I’m not even joking. Shout out to the real fans who knew what we had in the basement and for the patience it took to turn these Ls into lessons. Come on, you Gunners! Get in!

North London forever,
Whatever the weather.
These streets are our own,
And my heart will leave you never.
My blood will forever,
Run through the stone!

The post Mfonobong Inyang: What Arsenal Winning The League Means As A Superfan appeared first on BellaNaija - Showcasing Africa to the world. Read today!.

People who truly understand hospitality know that food is only the beginning. What stays with a guest long after the last bite, what they carry home and describe to a partner, or recount over laughter with friends who were lucky enough to be there, is the feeling. The memory of a place that held them well.

It is this feeling that Oasis Gourmet Restaurant and Pool Bar captures. Tucked within the Heliconia Park Hotel & Spa estate in Victoria Island, it is a new kind of fine dining in Lagos: one built not just around what is on the plate, but around everything that surrounds it.

Lagos moves at a pace few cities can match. It is electric, relentless, and alive in ways that draw people in and rarely let them go. Yet even its most devoted residents know there are moments when you want to exhale; to sit somewhere beautiful and let the evening find its own rhythm. Oasis Gourmet is built for exactly that moment.

The restaurant extends into an outdoor space where the pool sits in quiet company and the setting unfolds with deliberate care. The lighting does not intrude; it flatters, settling over the tables at precisely the warmth the hour deserves. It is the kind of ambience that does not need to announce itself. Everything within it already speaks clearly enough.

Woven into that setting is a culinary experience shaped by Heliconia Park‘s long-held philosophy of home-away-from-home luxury. The kitchen operates with a commitment to craft that does not reserve itself for special occasions. Every plate is the product of seasoned hands and a genuine understanding of what a guest deserves from quality ingredients handled with care, to presentation that earns a second look, and a consistency that tells you this kitchen takes its work personally.

The restaurant made its debut at an exclusive launch event that gathered some of Lagos’ most prominent figures: business leaders, government representatives, and tastemakers who know a significant addition to the city’s hospitality landscape when they see one. The evening unfolded exactly as the space was designed to, with good music, considered entertainment, and a menu that introduced itself with quiet confidence. It was less a launch than a statement of intent.

That statement carries the weight of a clear vision. Pasquale Fiore, Managing Director of Heliconia Park, put it plainly: the goal was never simply to open another restaurant.

“With Oasis Gourmet Restaurant and Pool Bar, we are bringing our philosophy into fine dining, offering an experience where every guest feels extra special, comfortable, and at home.”

There is something telling in the order of those words, that comfort and belonging are named alongside refinement, not as an afterthought, but as the point.

For Lagos, the arrival of Oasis Gourmet is well-timed. The city’s hospitality and lifestyle sector has been quietly but steadily maturing, drawing discerning visitors and locals alike who expect more from a night out than a good dish. They want an environment that reflects their own standards, secure, stylish, and run by people who understand that modern luxury is not loud. Oasis Gourmet answers that expectation without having to raise its voice.

Oasis Gourmet is the newest chapter in Heliconia Park‘s growing hospitality story, a natural extension of an estate that has always believed its guests deserve more than accommodation. They deserve an experience that follows them from check-in to the last sip of the evening, one that makes stepping outside feel entirely unnecessary.

The finest places never try to be everything to everyone. They do one thing extraordinarily well and let the right people find their way. At Oasis Gourmet, that one thing is an evening so well-considered it feels designed for you personally.

For reservations and enquiries, please call: +234 707 452 5979

Sponsored Content

The post Lagos Evenings Has A New Address: Inside A Luxurious Escape at Oasis Gourmet appeared first on BellaNaija - Showcasing Africa to the world. Read today!.

Still from My Father’s Shadow, a film directed by Akinola Davies Jr. and written by Wale Davies. Credit: Lakin Ogunbanwo

At the twelfth African Magic Viewers’ Choice Awards, on 9th May, My Father’s Shadow, Akinola Davies Jr.’s directorial debut, swept the major and most wins at the award show, including Best Movie, Best Director, Best Writing and others. The film was initially released in 16 states across Nigeria from September to October 2025, but due to its short run in Nigerian cinemas, most Nigerians missed out on watching the film. However, the recent AMVCA major awards clearouts ignite Nigerians’ interest in watching the film.

Therefore, to coincide with the month of Democracy in Nigeria, as My Father’s Shadow is a semi-autobiographical tale set over the course of a single day in the then Nigerian capital Lagos during the 1993 general election crisis, the film will return to Nigerian cinemas from 5th June 2026 for a special limited re-release in partnership with FilmOne Entertainment. The re-release is meant to invite audiences to revisit the acclaimed film as a living archive of memory and nationhood ahead of June 12.

Ahead of its re-release, we sat with the film’s producer, Funmbi Ogunbanwo, on the process of making the film, her personal story, working with Wale Davies and Akinola Danies Jr., their company Fatherland, and her general observations on the status of Nollywood.

Enjoy the conversation.

Funmbi Ogunbanwo at the AMVCA.

Hello Funmbi. How are you feeling today?

I’m feeling very well, very blessed, deeply fulfilled and humbled.

Congratulations to you and the team on the recent AMVCA wins. My Father’s Shadow is a terrific film, and it deservedly won most of the major categories. While shooting the film, as the producer, did you and the team envisage the film to be this successful?

No, we didn’t envisage that it would be this successful. My Father’s Shadow is a beautiful story and very gripping. At heart, it’s an honest take by Wale and Akin on what it means to deal with grief. It’s an honest take on Nigeria as a country and Nigeria as a father, on being a child and longing for the love of a father. It’s that honesty we always knew and felt when making the film. With these things, you almost never know, and you’re just showing up every day. We didn’t think it would be this successful.

Well, it turns out to be successful, winning multiple awards and premiering arguably the biggest movie stage in the world. Please tell us about the early days of My Father’s Shadow when the idea to shoot the film emerged

I’ve been working with Akin and Wale for many years now. We founded Fatherland together. I lead Fatherland as CEO and co-founder. My Father’s Shadow was a project we’ve been working on together for many years now. It was first written as a short film that Wale sent to me, which I thought was very beautiful. Wale would tell you he’s a new writer, and this is his first feature, but I could hear the tone of voice clearly in the script. For me, clarity is always a big thing in anything I’m working on. In any script or story, is the voice clear? When Akin and Wale decided to develop it into a feature from a short film, that clarity shone even more. The location, the 90s, was the detail and the subtlety. Not having light in your house as a 90s kid and playing outside with action figures, longing for your father to come back so you can play with him.

What prompted the foundation of Fatherland as a production company, and how has it been managing and directing the affairs of the production company?

Fatherland is a production company founded by Wale, myself and Akinola Davies.

I’m their unofficial adopted sister. I met Wale over a decade ago. We started off the company because we believed stories from here could travel, and more specifically, there were other kinds of stories that we were drawn to, and we both really wanted to tell. Akin was directing at the time and doing a lot of fashion projects. As Akin has said in interviews, at first he wasn’t sure he wanted to be a director because that comes with so much responsibility, but he’s such a strong visual storyteller and has a real knack and instinct. And that’s how you know good directors, they just have a pulse for these things.

We started off with just servicing Akin’s fashion projects and working with friends on other fashion projects and music videos. Then we started working with more international brands. The gap I saw was matching artistic integrity with structural efficiency, and that’s really what I handle as the CEO of the business. Yes, it’s great to do a cool project, but what are the systems you put in place to make sure that project is efficient? And that the next time you do that project, it is even more efficient? I sit in between creativity and business in the same breath. My passion revolves around building people, building stories and building systems. At the heart of Fatherland, that’s what we’re really committed to doing: nurturing talent, building stories that are culturally specific, contributing to the artistic lens through which we’re seen as African people and creating systems that enable these stories to thrive and reach the rest of the world.

Funmbi Ogunbanwo and Wale Davies at the AMVCA.

What are your observations on filmmaking in Africa, particularly in Nigeria?

We need more long-term thinking investors. We need strategists, people who have resources and finances, who will look at this whole ecosystem and value chain, and then decide to plug or fix very specific solutions-based businesses and structures that will ultimately solve long-term problems in this space. Production across the world is challenging, and I think in this age it’s even more challenging, with the disruption from streaming, verticals and so on. Nigeria is living in parallels – a system fraught with both a lot of challenges and a lot of opportunities. What the system really needs is more long-term investors. I always say Lekki and parts of VI didn’t exist 50-60 years ago, and people decided to start to sandfill as they saw a population boom coming. That’s the kind of foresight and thinking we need in the creative ecosystem. It’s not just being a fund for the sake of being a fund. Do you know how to fund, do you know what you’re funding? Are you really a fund or are you just some cheeky way to put some money, get some accolades and disturb filmmakers to get your money back? I just feel there is a big gap between funding, nurturing talent and actually finding solutions to our existing problems.

Thank you for taking the time to speak to us. Finally, as My Father’s Shadow returns to Nigerian cinemas, what do you hope the re-release does to Nigerians?

This re-release is about creating space for reflection, for conversation, and the healing of our shared wounds. There’s something powerful about watching this story in a room full of our people here in Nigeria, as we approach June 12.

The post Funmbi Ogunbanwo Reflects on the Creation of “My Father’s Shadow” as It Returns to the Cinemas in June appeared first on BellaNaija - Showcasing Africa to the world. Read today!.

The scholarship initiative, which was first announced by Africa’s foremost technology entrepreneur and Chairman of Zinox Group, Leo Stan Ekeh, is designed to empower indigent but exceptionally gifted Nigerian students to study Computer Science and other technology-related disciplines in federal and state universities, as well as polytechnics, across the country. Interested applicants can now visit Konga.com and click on the “1000 Tech Scholarship” banner, where all relevant information and application guidelines are available.

The initiative was inspired by Ekeh’s decision to mark his 70th birthday in an unconventional yet impactful manner. Rather than host an elaborate celebration, the serial digital entrepreneur and Forbes-recognised tech icon chose to invest directly in Nigeria’s future as a way of giving back to the corporate institutions and Nigerians who supported and trusted his business startup from its early stages and have continued to patronise his businesses over the years.

For decades, Ekeh, a recognised tech disruptor and a notably private personality, has remained a major force in the continent’s digital ecosystem. He pioneered indigenous computer manufacturing through Zinox Technologies, ICT Solutions through Task Systems, drove technology distribution through TD Africa, and transforming e-commerce with Konga. Through his businesses and philanthropic efforts, more than 6,700 Nigerians have reportedly benefited from technology training and empowerment initiatives championed by him over the years.

According to stakeholders behind the programme, the scholarship initiative goes beyond financial support and represents a strategic investment in Nigeria’s digital future. Beneficiaries will enjoy full scholarships covering tuition, accommodation, and monthly stipends. In addition, they will undergo intensive holiday training focused on strategic self-development and digital skills designed to prepare them for global opportunities upon graduation.

Globally, the impact of technology on economic growth has become undeniable. According to reports by the World Bank and the International Finance Corporation, digital economies contribute more than 15% of global GDP, while countries that invest heavily in digital education and technology infrastructure consistently record higher employment rates, stronger innovation ecosystems, and improved economic competitiveness. In Africa, the technology sector is projected to contribute over $1.5 trillion to the continent’s economy by 2030, with millions of digital jobs expected to emerge within the decade.

Nigeria, Africa’s largest economy and most populous nation, stands at the centre of this opportunity. However, experts have consistently stressed that the country’s ability to compete globally will depend significantly on how quickly it develops a new generation of highly skilled technology professionals.

It is this critical gap the Leo Stan Ekeh Foundation hopes to bridge.

Beyond tuition support, beneficiaries will gain access to mentorship, industry exposure, and practical guidance from distinguished members of the Nigeria Computer Society and other technology professionals. The initiative is structured to equip students with market-relevant skills, hands-on experience, and professional networks capable of positioning them for success in today’s rapidly evolving digital economy.

The scholarship programme also reflects a broader vision shared by its supporting partners (TD Africa, Konga, Zinox Technologies, and Task Systems) all of whom have played significant roles in shaping Africa’s ICT landscape over the years.
Industry observers believe the initiative could become one of the most impactful private-sector-driven educational interventions in Nigeria’s technology sector, particularly at a time when the country is aggressively pursuing digital transformation across education, governance, business, and public services.

As applications officially commence, organisers have assured prospective candidates that the selection process will remain transparent, merit-driven, and inclusive, with equal opportunities for qualified applicants from across Nigeria.

For easy access to the scholarship portal, application details, and participation guidelines, interested students are encouraged to visit Konga.com and click on the “1000 Tech Scholarship” banner.

BellaNaija is a Media Partner for Leo Stan Ekeh Foundation

The post 1,000 Tech Scholarships Now Live for Nigerian Indigent Whizkids appeared first on BellaNaija - Showcasing Africa to the world. Read today!.

Kasala movie stars Emeka Nwagbaraocha, Chimezie Imo, Tomiwa Tegbe, and Mike Afolarin reunite to co-produce and star in the theatrical production Project X… Almost Famous.

What happens when four of Nollywood’s most exciting young talents, who also happen to be genuine friends, decide to build something together from the ground up? You get “Project X… Almost Famous,” and you will want a front-row seat for this one.

Emeka Nwagbaraocha, Chimezie Imo, Tomiwa Tegbe, and Mike Afolarin, four names you already know from the beloved Nigerian coming-of-age film Kasala, are reuniting — this time on stage — for a brand new theatrical production they are headlining and executive producing together. The four actors have also officially launched The MECT Company, a creative collective born from years of friendship, collaboration, and a shared commitment to telling stories that actually feel true.

The stars of the upcoming Nigerian theatrical production Project X… Almost Famous showcase their real-life camaraderie ahead of their July 2026 performance at the MUSON Centre.

Written by Chiemeka Osuagwu and directed by Goodness Emmanuel, “Project X… Almost Famous” follows four friends and former members of a defunct music group called 4-Eva, as they navigate the pressure, chaos, laughter, and heartbreak of life in Lagos. Brotherhood, ambition, failure, survival, hope — it is all in there, wrapped in sharp dialogue, live musical elements, and emotional honesty. The production is set against the full weight and colour of contemporary Lagos life, and it sounds like exactly what Nigerian theatre has been waiting for.

The four shared:

Since Kasala, each of us has continued to grow individually, but there’s something special about coming back together. This project is personal. It’s about the friendships that hold us up, the dreams we refuse to let die, and the city that tests us every single day.

Project X… Almost Famous runs across two weekends at the MUSON Centre, Agip Hall, Lagos — Saturday 18 and Sunday 19 July, and Saturday 25 and Sunday 26 July 2025. Ticket information and full cast details will be announced in the coming weeks.

A vibrant, contemporary promotional graphic highlighting the core brotherhood themes of Chiemeka Osuagwu’s new stage play, Project X… Almost Famous.

The post Chimezie Imo, Mike Afolarin, Tomiwa Tegbe & Emeka Nwagbaraocha Announce “Project X… Almost Famous” appeared first on BellaNaija - Showcasing Africa to the world. Read today!.

Tems leads the African contingent at the 2026 BET Awards with three major nominations, including Best Female R&B/Pop Artist. Photo Credit: Tems/Instagram

BET has dropped the nominations for its 2026 ceremony and Nigerian music is, once again, all over the list. Tems, Wizkid, Burna Boy, and Asake have all secured nominations for this year’s show, which holds on Sunday, 28 June 2026 at the Peacock Theatre in Los Angeles, hosted by comedian Druski.

Tems leads the Nigerian contingent with three nominations, making her the most nominated African act this year. She is up for Best Female R&B/Pop Artist alongside SZA, Olivia Dean, Mariah the Scientist, Kehlani, Jill Scott, Ella Mai, Coco Jones, and Ari Lennox. She also picks up a BET Her Award nomination for her song “First,” and a Viewers’ Choice nomination for “Raindance,” her collaboration with British rapper Dave.

Wizkid and Asake earned a joint nomination in the Best Group category for their collaborative project and string of chart-topping releases together, including tracks from their joint Real EP. Burna Boy rounds out the Nigerian music nominations with a Best Collaboration nod for “WGFT,” his feature on Gunna’s hit single from the 2025 album “The Last Wun.” Beyond music, stars of Nigerian heritage also feature prominently in the acting categories — Ayo Edebiri and Cynthia Erivo are both nominated for Best Actress, while Damson Idris received a Best Actor nomination.

South African star Tyla earned two nominations: Video of the Year and Viewers’ Choice for her track “Chanel.” Leading the overall nominations is Cardi B with six nods, followed by Kendrick Lamar and Mariah the Scientist with five each. This year also introduces two new categories — the Fashion Vanguard Award and the Pulse Award. The 2026 BET Awards air live on 28 June at 8pm ET/PT on BET, with simulcast across BET HER, MTV, VH1, Comedy Central, and several other Paramount networks.

See the full nominees list below for the music category

The post Tems Leads Nigerian Artists in BET Awards 2026 Nominations Alongside Wizkid, Burna Boy & Asake appeared first on BellaNaija - Showcasing Africa to the world. Read today!.

If you love premium sound but hate the ear fatigue and blocked-out feeling of traditional earbuds, your audio game just got a massive upgrade. Lifestyle tech brand digifon officially launched its highly anticipated Open Wearable Stereo (OWS) earbuds series, and they did it in true Lagos fashion with an absolute banger of an experiential party that had guests testing, dancing, and buying on the spot.

Moving away from boring, traditional tech rollouts, digifon turned their launch into a full sensory celebration of sound, culture, and pure vibe.

The Open-Ear Revolution: Guests Couldn’t Get Enough

The energy in the room was electric as tech enthusiasts, creators, and lifestyle pioneers crowded the interactive testing zones. The big talk of the night? Open Wearable Stereo (OWS) technology. Unlike regular earbuds that plug your ear canal, digifon’s new lineup sits comfortably outside the ear, delivering crisp, heavy bass while letting you stay completely aware of your surroundings.

Guests were genuinely wowed, testing the spatial awareness features while grooving to relentless Afrobeats sets. It didn’t take long for the testing stations to turn into buying stations, as attendees eagerly snapped up the new devices right at the venue to take advantage of the exclusive launch perks.

Adding major glam and energy to the event was product experience specialist Alex Unusual, who was the night’s special guest. The creative expert and former BBNaija star brought her signature authenticity and distinct eye for experiential design to the showcase, hyping up the crowd as they explored the interactive sound stages.

With endless cocktails, light bites, and a live DJ pumping heavy bass through digifon’s BOOMMAX ELITE 3 speakers and digifon’s power & audio ecosystem, the music was the ultimate product pitch.

“African consumers have been instructed to adapt to technology ecosystems and play by a retail rulebook that was never written for us,” stated Dapo Rowland Okotore, CEO of WTG IT Solutions Limited, parent company of digifon. “The ‘Unplugged & Unstoppable’ movement is our direct response to the real-world challenges our consumers face every day, from battery anxiety to disconnected lifestyles. In launching the breakthrough Oyster and StoneBud earbuds, we didn’t just introduce premium audio; we shattered the old limitations and created an authentic, high-performance tech playbook built by us, for us.”

The New Lineup (With Limited-Time Launch Perks)

To celebrate the nationwide rollout, digifon is offering these premium open-ear devices with exclusive launch discounts and complimentary data bundles to keep you instantly connected.

Oyster Premium OWS: Engineered for pristine clarity, fluid movement, and zero ear fatigue. This premium model is currently packaged with a special launch discount, a data bundle, and an incredible free gift.

StonesBud OWS: Massive, everyday wireless sound built for the fitness and fashion crowd. This fan-favorite is also coming hot with special promotional pricing, instant data, and a free gift.

“Our mission is to create unique, reliable lifestyle products that fundamentally improve how people live,” says Kemi Adedeji, General Manager of WTG IT Solutions Limited. “With the new Open Wearable Stereo series, you can safely listen to your background environment while enjoying crisp, Afrobeats-tuned audio unique to our music preferences.”

The room confirmed the cross-industry pull of the Unplugged & Unstoppable experience. Guests drawn from every corner of Nigeria’s creative, business, and professional landscape including coach and business leader, Dr Lanre Olusola; Nollywood actor and film producer Efe Henry, and fragrance connoisseur and CEO of Seinde Signature Salon De Parfum, Olufemi Olusola Olaseinde amongst many others were in attendance.

For the next 30 days, consumers can now walk into Glo outlets nationwide to experience digifon products, claim their bonus data, and upgrade their lifestyle.

To learn more about the Unplugged & Unstoppable rollout and buy your own digifon products engineered for the African reality, visit www.digifon.ng and get updates on Instagram.

Sponsored Content

The post Inside digifon’s Star-Studded OWS Earbuds Launch Party | Now Available at Glo Stores Nationwide appeared first on BellaNaija - Showcasing Africa to the world. Read today!.

A close-up portrait of Las Vegas Aces star A’ja Wilson sporting a bold red hairstyle and her signature number 22 jersey ahead of her historic 2026 WNBA run. Photo Credit: A’ja Wilson/Instagram

A’ja Wilson is not letting 2026 breathe. Just three games into the new WNBA season, the Las Vegas Aces centre dropped 45 points against the Connecticut Sun on Friday, 15 May, to become the first player in WNBA history with multiple 45-point games. The Aces won 101-94 at Mohegan Sun Arena in Uncasville, Connecticut, and Wilson was the reason why.

The numbers from that night deserve their own paragraph. Wilson shot 15-for-18 from the field, connected on both of her three-point attempts, and made all 13 of her free throws — finishing with 45 points, 3 rebounds, 3 assists, 2 blocks, and a steal in just 32 minutes. According to ESPN Research, she became the only player in WNBA history to score 45 or more points while shooting 80 per cent or better from the field. The performance also gave her the fifth 40-point game of her career, the most in WNBA history, moving her past Breanna Stewart and Diana Taurasi who she had previously been tied with.

Her first 45-point game came on 22 August 2023 against the Atlanta Dream, which remains her career high at 53 points. Friday’s 45 is now the second highest scoring night of her career, and the highest in the WNBA this season. Her boyfriend, Miami Heat star Femi “Bam” Adebayo, was courtside to watch it happen.

Basketball champion A’ja Wilson steps out in a striking gold metallic Prabal Gurung gown for the 2026 Met Gala red carpet. Photo Credit: A’ja Wilson/Instagram

Wilson was typically understated about it afterwards. “Finding shots in our system and letting the flow of the game take over — that’s big to me,” she said. “I want to be efficient. It’s beautiful to rack up all these points, but to be efficient, that’s what is key.” Her Aces teammate and point guard Chelsea Gray had a different kind of reaction: “You can’t get bored with watching greatness. I’m around it all the time, but I’m surprised every day.” Wilson herself added a sentimental note about the venue, which is set to lose the Connecticut Sun next season as they relocate to Houston. “This building has been special to me for a while,” she said. “Got my first WNBA point in this building and a championship in this building. It’s fun coming here. Going to miss this place.”

Four-time WNBA MVP. First player in league history with multiple 45-point games. The 2026 season has barely started.

The post A’ja Wilson Becomes the First Player in WNBA History With Multiple 45-Point Games appeared first on BellaNaija - Showcasing Africa to the world. Read today!.

A visual representation of a Ghanaian traveller benefiting from Togo’s historic 2026 decision granting visa-free access to all African nationals, seen at the Lomé airport arrivals.

Attention, passport holders. Togo has just made your next travel decision a lot easier. The West African country officially removed visa requirements for all African citizens on 18 May 2026, making it the sixth African country to grant visa-free access to fellow Africans. If you are holding a valid African passport, you can now enter Togo for stays of up to 30 days — no visa, no stress.

The announcement was made by Togo’s Ministry of Security on Tuesday via its official X handle. In the official statement, the ministry said: “Togo takes a historic step in strengthening African integration. Henceforth, all nationals of African states holding a valid national passport may enter Togolese territory without a visa, for a stay of up to 30 days. Through this major reform, the President of the Council reaffirms his commitment to making Togo a space of openness, mobility, opportunities, and cooperation at the heart of the African continent.” Togo’s Minister of Security, Calixte Madjoulba, added that the decision is aimed at deepening regional integration and boosting cross-border cooperation across the continent, and that the policy is part of Togo’s broader ambition to position Lomé as a regional hub for trade, services, culture, and investment within Africa.

The timing of the announcement is significant. Togo made the declaration at the opening of the third edition of the Biashara Afrika Business Forum, which Lomé is hosting under the theme “Powering Africa’s Economic Transformation through the AfCFTA.” The move aligns with African Union goals around free movement under the African Continental Free Trade Area framework, and follows similar visa liberalisation policies adopted by Rwanda, Ghana, Benin, and Kenya.

There are a few things worth knowing before you start packing. The visa-free policy does not mean showing up at the border without any preparation. Travellers are required to complete a travel declaration on Togo’s official government platform at voyage.gouv.tg at least 24 hours before arrival. Once completed, you will receive a travel slip that must be presented at the border checkpoint, whether you are entering by land, air, or sea. The exemption also does not override existing immigration, health, and national security regulations, so standard entry requirements still apply. The 30-day stay limit is firm, and overstaying will still carry consequences under Togolese law.

Lomé is one of West Africa’s most underrated cities — coastal, culturally rich, and increasingly open for business. With this new policy in place, getting there just got a whole lot more straightforward for Africans everywhere.

LE TOGO SUPPRIME LE VISA POUR TOUS LES AFRICAINS !

Le Togo franchit une étape historique dans le renforcement de l’intégration africaine. Désormais, tous les ressortissants des États africains détenteurs d’un passeport national valide peuvent entrer sur le territoire togolais… pic.twitter.com/ewa2QRSfyq

— Ministère de la Sécurité – Togo (@MSPC_TOGO) May 18, 2026

The post Togo Removes Visa Requirements for All African Citizens | Here Is Everything You Need to Know appeared first on BellaNaija - Showcasing Africa to the world. Read today!.

The award-winning cast and crew of The Fisherman bring festival glamour to the blue carpet during the film’s official Lagos premiere celebration. Photo Credit: The Fishermen/Instagram

Before you make your cinema plans, there is one film you need to know about. “The Fisherman,” the Ghanaian comedy that won Ghana its first ever official selection at the Venice International Film Festival, is now in Nigerian cinemas and the trailer is finally here for Nigerian audiences.

“The Fisherman” tells the story of Atta Oko, a retired traditional fisherman whose life takes an unexpected turn when he is paired with a sarcastic talking fish. Together with his three quirky associates — Shasha, Kobina, and Emmanuel — they set off on a whimsical adventure to Accra, chasing the dream of owning a boat while navigating the clash between tradition and the modern world. It is warm, funny, and culturally rich.

Written and directed by Ghanaian-American filmmaker Zoey Martinson in her feature debut, the film is produced by Kofi Owusu–Afriyie and Korey Jackson for Luu Vision Media, and executive produced by Emmy-nominated Nigerian-American actress Yvonne Orji. The cast includes Ricky Adelayitar, William Lamptey, Kiki Romi, Adwoa Akoto, and Princess Fathia Nkrumah, with Nigerian dancer and content creator Endurance Grand bringing serious star power to the screen, and Nigerian comedian Dulo Harris voicing the talking fish.

Filmmaker Zoey Martinson goes over production notes with lead character Atta Oko, played by William Lamptey, on the set of the award-winning comedy The Fisherman. Photo Credit: The Fishermen Film/Instagram 

The film’s festival run speaks for itself. “The Fisherman” made history as Ghana’s first official selection at the 81st Venice International Film Festival, where it won the prestigious UNESCO Fellini Medal. It went on to win Best Narrative Feature at the American Black Film Festival, Best Ghanaian Film at the REFFA Awards, and earned a nomination for Outstanding International Motion Picture at the NAACP Image Awards. Closer to home, director Zoey Martinson won Best Director at the Africa International Film Festival in Lagos, with the award presented by David Oyelowo.” The Fisherman” is now in Nigerian cinemas from 15 May 2026.

Watch the trailer below.

The post Ricky Adelayitar, Endurance Grand and More Star in Award-Winning Ghanaian Film “The Fisherman” | Watch Trailer appeared first on BellaNaija - Showcasing Africa to the world. Read today!.

Reehaa

One of the biggest misconceptions about artists is that when they go quiet, it means they have stopped caring about their fans. For me, it was quite the opposite. The quieter I became, the more music consumed my life emotionally.

I’m Rihanat Ajala, professionally Reehaa, a 21-year-old Nigerian Afro-fusion artist. I’m the lastborn and the only daughter in a family of five. My mum is late, and honestly, music is one of the deepest connections I still have to her. She loved music so much, and sometimes I think a huge part of why I make music is because of that. I want to create songs I know she would have loved. Songs she would have played loudly. Songs she would have been proud of.

That emotional connection is what made music feel natural to me from the beginning. I genuinely love making music. Not just the idea of being an artist, but the actual process of creating songs and expressing emotions through sound. But loving music and surviving the music industry are two different things.

There were periods where everything felt exciting. Meeting creatives, recording constantly, getting opportunities that once felt impossible. One of those moments was meeting Shallipopi. Funny enough, he actually reached out to me after listening to a song I was on. He said he loved my vocals and my verse, then contacted somebody who knew me and invited me over to work on background vocals for some songs he was preparing to release.

Beyond music, he was genuinely kind to me. In this industry, you remember people who treat you well, especially during uncertain moments in your life. I have a lot of respect for him for that. Moments like that made everything feel real.

But even with moments like those, the journey still became emotionally heavy for me. It wasn’t one specific event. It came in waves. In 2023, music started feeling heavier than it used to. In 2024, things became a little better mentally. But 2025 was probably the hardest period for me because I had no personal release and genuinely did not know what my life looked like anymore.

Everything felt uncertain at the same time. Comparison played a huge role in that feeling. Burnout too.

Social media makes it very easy to feel like everybody else is moving forward while you are standing still. You open Instagram, and everybody is announcing something, achieving something, becoming something. Meanwhile, you are sitting there questioning yourself.

At some point, I stopped believing in myself completely. I was still recording music, but I was no longer connected to it emotionally. I was making songs without even believing in what I was doing anymore. There were so many moments I genuinely considered quitting music entirely.

I remember one conversation that affected me deeply. A friend once told me that maybe I was not hungry enough for success. That maybe I did not want it badly enough. Honestly, hearing that during a period when almost everything in my life already felt like it was going wrong made things worse for me. I was already emotionally exhausted. I had no release out. I felt disconnected from myself creatively. Everything felt delayed at once.

Reehaa

It is hard to explain that kind of feeling unless you have experienced it before. It is when your dream still exists, but you no longer know how to carry it properly.

A lot of people misunderstood my silence during that period, especially online. People probably assumed I was unserious or inconsistent, but it was never about a lack of love for music. Life was simply happening to me in real time. I also had this mindset that Instagram had to be perfect and polished before I could show up there. So instead of posting imperfectly, I disappeared quietly for long periods.

But during those silent moments, music never left me still.

And eventually, “Lọ́kànmi” was born from that space emotionally. I wrote the song at home, and surprisingly, it took me over a month to finish because it just was not coming together the way I wanted. I wanted the song to feel honest and complete, but I kept hitting creative walls while writing it. The craziest part is that the second verse only came to me on the actual day I was recording the song.

That song carries a lot emotionally. I think “Lọ́kànmi” became my reassurance to myself. A reminder that even after doubt, burnout, comparison and silence, my dreams were still alive somewhere inside me. Because the truth is, I never stopped loving music. I just got tired. And I think many young creatives secretly understand that feeling more than people realise.

 

View this post on Instagram

 

A post shared by Ajala (@reehaa_____)

Thankfully, I did not go through that period alone. My family, my friends and my manager kept reminding me who I was during moments where I could not even see it myself. A lot of the reason I am still here today is that people around me refused to let me completely give up on myself.

Slowly, I started reconnecting with music again in a healthier way, not from trying to compete with everybody online but from genuine love for creating. I am no longer chasing perfection endlessly; just creating honestly and allowing myself to grow publicly instead of hiding while trying to become perfect first.

I am still growing. Still learning myself. Still becoming. More than anything, I just want people to understand me better after reading this. I want people to understand that behind all the silence was simply a girl trying to hold onto herself while still holding onto her dream. A girl who genuinely loves music. Hopefully, as people continue listening to my music, they will hear that honesty for themselves.

“Lọ́kànmi” is out tomorrow on all streaming platforms. Stick with me.

The post Reehaa on The Struggles of Being an Upcoming Artist in Today’s Nigerian Music Industry appeared first on BellaNaija - Showcasing Africa to the world. Read today!.

A detailed view of the fluffy inside texture and rich fish filling of Kikifoodies’ homemade Nigerian-style sardine bread loaf. Photo Credit: Kikifoodies

If you grew up loving sardine sandwiches, soft agege bread, or those quick savoury snacks that somehow disappear faster than expected, Kikifoodies’ new Sardine Pull-Apart Bread recipe might be calling your name already.

Fresh out of the oven, this bread comes apart in warm, fluffy layers packed with savoury sardine filling and just enough pepper to keep every bite interesting. The dough is soft, buttery, and slightly chewy, while the sardines bring that rich, salty flavour many Nigerians already know and love. Then comes the finishing touch: a glossy spicy sardine oil brushed over the loaf while it is still warm, giving the bread extra flavour and a gentle kick from the pepper.

What also makes this recipe fun is the way it comes together. After the dough rises into a soft, airy texture, the sardine mixture is spread across it before everything is sliced, stacked, and arranged upright in a loaf pan. As it bakes, the layers puff up beautifully into golden pull-apart sections that are easy to tear into and share. It is one of those recipes that feels comforting from start to finish, especially when the smell starts filling the kitchen.

The complete golden-brown loaf of Kikifoodies’ spicy sardine pull-apart bread recipe, finished with a glossy herb and chili oil brush. Photo Credit: Kikifoodies

For the filling, Kikifoodies keeps things simple with sardines, a little seasoning, and pepper flakes for heat, allowing the flavour of the fish to remain at the centre of the bread. The recipe also uses bread flour for that stretchy, bakery-style texture, alongside butter, yeast, and warm milk or water to help the loaf stay rich and soft.

Whether you eat it as a snack, breakfast, or something to pass around at home with tea, this Sardine Pull-Apart Bread looks like the sort of recipe people will keep coming back to. And if you are anything like us, you will probably pull off “just one piece” before immediately going back for another.

The post Kikifoodies’ Sardine Pull-Apart Bread Looks Like the Cosy Homemade Snack We All Need appeared first on BellaNaija - Showcasing Africa to the world. Read today!.

Hey BNers! Funmilola Sanya here, and I have some exciting news: I am packing my bags and heading to Nairobi, Kenya, this week to the 2026 Africa Soft Power Summit, and, guess what? I am taking you with me.

Now in its seventh edition, the Africa Soft Power Summit is one of the continent’s most critical cross-sector gatherings. It brings together leaders from finance, technology, policy, media, and the creative industries to tackle the conversations that matter most about Africa’s economic future.

This year’s theme, “Africa’s Compound Interest: Aligning Ecosystems of Finance, Creativity and Human Capital for Growth,” sets the tone for four days of high-level dialogue running from 20 to 23 May at the Hyatt Regency Nairobi Westlands. The programme includes the Remarkable African Women’s Leadership Conference, the Creative and Innovative Industries Conference, and the famous ASP Gala and Awards. The speaker lineup is packed with heavy hitters too, including Bolanle Austen–Peters, D’banj, Rita Dominic, Alex Okosi, and Zainab Hawa Bangura.

BellaNaija joins the summit as a narrative partner this year, meaning I will be right on the ground covering every session, conversation, and cultural moment worth knowing about. From the panels to the people in the room, expect daily diaries, exclusive insights, and plenty of behind-the-scenes action straight from the plenary floors.

It doesn’t end there, we will be touring Nairobi! How cool is that? I cannot wait to bring you all the exquisite looks from the beautiful city of Nairobi. So what say you? Coming with me? Keep your eyes glued to our social media pages and follow the journey using the hashtags #ASPSummit2026 and #BNinNairobi.

Nairobi, here I come!

The post BellaNaija’s Funmilola Is Heading to Nairobi for the Africa Soft Power Summit 2026 appeared first on BellaNaija - Showcasing Africa to the world. Read today!.

Mesoma in her studio surrounded by her paintings and quiltworks

Mesoma Hammida Onyeagba, a Nigerian artist, along many milestones has made a significant mark in New York City with her unique quilt art. Her recent creation has been acquired by the Finnish Consulate General and is now proudly displayed in their residence. This marks a notable achievement as one of the first art pieces/quilts by a Nigerian artist to be included in their collection.

Mesoma is an interdisciplinary artist based in the New York/New Jersey area, who explores painting, textiles, and fashion-based art. Drawing from her Nigerian heritage, Onyeagba transforms discarded fabrics into cherished artifacts that carry histories, memories, and personal narratives.

A Photo of a quilt and its presentation by the wife of the Finnish Consulate General

With a BFA from the University of Ottawa 2022 and an MFA from the School of the Art Institute of Chicago (SAIC) 2024, Onyeagba redefines traditional notions of beauty by advocating for the
appreciation of upcycled art and aesthetics.

This caught the eye of the Wife of the Consulate General, Jaana Sareva who recognized its artistic merit and cultural significance. The acquisition of the two quilt works highlights the Consulate’s commitment to diversity and inclusion in the arts.

Mesoma’s work not only represents a personal triumph but also serves as a bridge between cultures, celebrating Nigerian artistry on an international stage. This achievement is a testament to her talent and dedication, paving the way for more diverse representation in art collections worldwide. Her works have been featured in solo and group exhibitions across the U.S and internationally, including at the Ely Center of Contemporary Art, Arts14c, and Ottawa Art Gallery, TEDxUTAustin etc Her art is also held in private collections, including at The Bunker Artspace in West Palm Beach.

Above: Quilt 1 displayed in the Guest Room, 2026

Above: Quilt 2 displayed in the Conference Room, 2026

Onyeagba has been recognized with awards such as the Municipal Art League Fellowship Award and the Suzanne Rivard-Le Moyne Award. Her work has been highlighted in publications such as 1883 Magazine, Create! Magazine, New American Paintings, MFA Annual Issue, Vanguard News Nigeria, Business Insider and Yale Daily News. You can view more of her artworks
at www.mesomaonyeagba.com.

Mesoma Poses with one of her acquired quilt in Mrs Jaana’s home, 2026

Sponsored Content

The post A Nigerian Artist’s Touch: Mesoma’s Quilts Enhances Finnish Consulate’s Collection appeared first on BellaNaija - Showcasing Africa to the world. Read today!.

The complete full-length view of Omawunmi Dada’s custom royal blue Northern Nigerian-inspired ensemble for the Okanjuwa premiere. Photo Credit: Omowunmi Dada/Instagram

Ready to be blown away by some blue?

Omawunmi Dada stepped out for the “Okanjuwa” premiere last night, wearing a royal blue look inspired by Northern Nigerian royalty. The official theme for the evening was “Eid-MetGala,” and she completely leaned into the cultural fusion.

Sharing the look on her Instagram, she captioned it:

Serving Muslimah elegance because Eid came a little early for the OKANJUWA premiere. Dresscode is Eid-MetGala, now my team can’t decide whether I look more like a Khadijah or a Zareema . Which team are you on?

The base of her outfit is a structured, floor-length column gown in a striking shade of blue. The material has a rich texture that holds its shape, featuring a modest boat neckline paired with a sheer panel across the collarbone highlighted by a neat row of silver crystals. Down the bodice, vertical lines of linear beadwork run past the waist, creating a sharp, structured silhouette before smoothing out into a clean skirt. For a bit of sculptural flair, the long sleeves finish with structured, petal-like ruffles around the forearms.

Omawunmi Dada’s dramatic flowing chiffon cape and custom royal blue gown tailored for the Eid-MetGala dress code. Photo Credit: Omowunmi Dada/Instagram

To hit that perfect note of Northern cultural grace, a matching chiffon veil draped over her headpiece flows down her back, pooling into a long cape behind her. The setting for her photoshoot features traditional Hausa architectural patterns and handwoven baskets, making her vibrant blue outfit stand out even more against the earthy backdrop. She rounded everything off with stacked silver bracelets, statement rings, drop earrings, and a bright pink lip.

Whether she leans more towards Team Khadijah or Team Zareema, this look is a beautiful nod to cultural heritage. Which team are you voting for?

See more looks below

 

View this post on Instagram

 

A post shared by Omowunmi Dada (@omowunmi_dada)

The post Omowunmi Dada’s Royal Blue Look at the “Okanjuwa” Premiere Is Giving Northern Nigerian Royalty appeared first on BellaNaija - Showcasing Africa to the world. Read today!.